Apple in talks with Baidu on AI partnership: report

Photo credit: Apple

Apple held early-stage talks with Baidu about the possibility of incorporating the latter’s generative AI technology into the former’s products in China, The Wall Street Journal reported, citing sources briefed on the situation.

This is part of Apple’s broader initiative to enhance its AI features and adhere to Chinese regulations, which require AI models to be pre-approved by the government.

It would also save Apple the trouble of developing AI services in the Chinese language, especially with local rivals already having a leg up in this regard, analysts told WSJ.

The sources added that the discussions with Baidu are not yet conclusive, and it’s uncertain whether Apple has reached out to other Chinese AI firms.

If a partnership materializes, Baidu can help Apple compete in the Chinese market better with companies like Huawei.

While Apple has held a strong grip on the Asian country’s smartphone market over recent years, many local customers have been switching to Huawei. The Chinese firm launched its flagship Mate 60 Pro last year amid US sanctions, which state media applauded.

Meanwhile, Apple is also focusing on expanding its research and development efforts in China, with plans for a new lab dedicated to product innovation. In addition, the firm is gearing up for the rollout of its Vision Pro headset in China soon.

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