Trends

Apple to install Baidu AI on its iPhone 16 and other products in China

AuthorBTW Editorial

Reading Time2 min

PublishedMarch 26, 2024

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Headline

Context

US tech giant Apple has picked Chinese search engine giant Baidu to provide the generative artificial intelligence (AI) technology for its coming iPhone 16 and other products in the mainland market this year. Apple will use Baidu’s Ernie Bot for its iPhone 16, Mac OS and iOS 18 in China, following talks with other Chinese companies, including Alibaba Group Holding and an artificial intelligence company affiliated with Tsinghua University, according to a report on Monday by China Star Market, a media outlet under Shanghai United Media Group.

Evidence

Pending intelligence enrichment.

Analysis

Apple will use its own AI model outside China but turn to locally-built technology for the mainland market based on compliance considerations, the report said. The local media article followed a report on Friday by the Wall Street Journal that said Apple had held initial talks with search engine giant Baidu to use the Chinese firm’s generative AI on its iPhone and other products in China. Also read: Apple CEO Tim Cook visits Shanghai as China iPhone sales fall Also read: Security vulnerability uncovered in Apple Silicon chips

Key Points

Apple will use its own AI model outside China but turn to locally-built technology for the mainland.
The development comes amid Apple chief executive Tim Cook’s visit to China, during which he opened a new retail store in Shanghai.