Apple to use Baidu’s AI services on iPhone 16 in China: report

Apple is reportedly in talks with Chinese tech giant Baidu to use its large language model (LLM) and artificial intelligence (AI) services for its ecosystem in China. The rumored partnership could allow local AI players to give the Cupertino-based tech giant access to its AI capabilities and even local AI assistant Ernie Bot. It is claimed that these features will be added to the iPhone 16 series with iOS 18 and macOS 15. Earlier this month, a report claimed that Apple was considering a similar deal with Google to leverage its Gemini AI in other parts of the world.

first report The Wall Street Journal reported on March 22 that Apple and Baidu have held preliminary discussions about using its generative AI technology in its devices and operating systems.Monday, one Report Morningstar revealed that Baidu shares rose 5.4% after an unnamed Chinese media reported on a collaboration between the two technology giants.

Apple also reportedly held discussions with Alibaba and another Chinese artificial intelligence company before choosing Baidu. The Chinese technology company has been one of the most active players in artificial intelligence. The company launched the artificial intelligence chatbot Ernie Bot in August 2023, which is powered by the company’s native large language model Ernie 4.0. In December 2023, the company’s chief technology officer Wang Haifeng revealed that the number of chatbot users had exceeded 100 million.

According to the Wall Street Journal, Apple is looking for local artificial intelligence technology providers in China because of regulatory obstacles in the region. China requires that all LLM models operating within the country must be inspected and approved by its cyberspace regulator before being launched to the public. Currently, more than 40 LLMs have been approved by regulatory agencies. According to reports, since OpenAI or Google Gemini do not operate in the region, Apple’s only option is to cooperate with local manufacturers.

It’s unclear whether the deal will see Baidu’s branding on the artificial intelligence features Apple adds. However, the iPhone maker is said to be planning to introduce on-device AI features rather than cloud-based ones. Therefore, Chinese users may not see Ernie Bot or any of Baidu’s familiar AI tools, as Apple may only use the engine to run the AI ​​capabilities.