Apple Discusses Partnering with Baidu on AI for Chinese Market
Apple Inc. is exploring a partnership with Baidu Inc. to incorporate the Chinese company's generative AI technologies into Apple products for the Chinese market. This initiative is aimed at complying with local regulatory requirements, as the Chinese government mandates that all AI models must receive official approval before deployment. Baidu, a leading domestic search engine and AI developer, has successfully rolled out over 40 generative AI models that align with the nation's new regulations.
The potential collaboration between Apple and Baidu is still in its early stages, with details of the discussions not fully disclosed. Apple's interest in Baidu's technology surfaces amid expectations of integrating advanced AI features in the forthcoming iOS 18 update, which is slated for release to iPhone users in September. If the partnership materializes, it could be a significant strategic move for Apple, allowing the company to maintain its presence in the Chinese market without running afoul of local laws.
The news of the talks has already had a positive impact on Baidu's market position, with shares rising 5% in pre-market trading. Baidu's advancements in AI technology are viewed as pivotal in China's tech landscape, where companies are heavily investing in AI solutions to compete globally. The collaboration could provide Apple with a compliant pathway to bring its promised AI innovations to one of its largest consumer bases in 2024.
