As we all know, Apple has introduced a groundbreaking AI feature in iOS 18, dubbed "Apple Intelligence" or "Apple Smart".

This AI feature, a collaboration between Apple and OpenAI, inherently poses challenges for domestic implementation.

Persistent rumors have circulated that Apple is on the lookout for a Chinese partner for its AI in China and was reportedly in discussions with Baidu to integrate Baidu's ERNIE Bot. Given ERNIE Bot's reputation, this partnership seemed like a logical choice.

Many speculated that by 2025, Apple's AI would be available in China, seamlessly integrated with Baidu's ERNIE Bot, and preparations were well underway.

However, before facts are solidified, anything can change.

Recent reports suggest that Apple may have shelved plans to integrate Baidu's ERNIE Bot in China and is now reassessing its partnership options, with two potential partners in focus.

These include Tencent's "Hunyuan" large model and ByteDance's "Doubao" AI model. Apple is currently in negotiations with both companies to explore integration options for its iPhone AI.

Naturally, these negotiations encompass not only business aspects but also technical considerations.

According to insiders, Apple's decision to abandon Baidu's ERNIE Bot is reportedly due to technical issues rather than business concerns. The current model struggles to accurately understand prompts and respond appropriately to common iPhone user scenarios, delaying its domestic implementation.

Currently, these are mere rumors without concrete evidence, and neither Baidu, Tencent, ByteDance, nor Apple have made any official statements on the matter.

Therefore, it remains unclear whether Apple's AI in the Chinese market will ultimately partner with Baidu, Tencent, or ByteDance. Future negotiations with Alibaba or iFLYTEK could also emerge as possibilities.

However, the likelihood of negotiations with Huawei is virtually non-existent. Even if Huawei possesses a suitable AI model, Apple's competitive relationship with Huawei ensures that such a partnership is unlikely.