Apple to Launch Apple Intelligence in China in December

Apple Inc. will launch its Apple Intelligence artificial intelligence platform in mainland China in December 2026 through the iOS 27.3 software update. The rollout brings AI capabilities to iPhone, iPad, and Mac users that first debuted in the United States two years ago.

The initial release will exclude the redesigned Siri AI assistant and other recently announced AI features. This launch follows multiple postponements from original targets in May 2025 and spring 2026 as the company worked to satisfy local regulatory requirements.

Apple reportedly secured preliminary regulatory approval in July and is currently coordinating with China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology for final authorization. The expansion is intended to increase Apple's competitiveness in the Chinese smartphone market, where AI integration has become critical for consumers.