Published on: 2025-04-02

Intelligence Report: PSA You can’t use Apple Intelligence on devices purchased in China – 9to5Mac

1. BLUF (Bottom Line Up Front)

Apple Intelligence features are unavailable on devices purchased in China due to local legislation. Users who wish to access these features must change their device’s region settings or purchase devices outside of China. This restriction impacts users’ ability to utilize AI features on Apple products, potentially affecting user satisfaction and market dynamics in China.

2. Detailed Analysis

The following structured analytic techniques have been applied for this analysis:

General Analysis

The restriction on Apple Intelligence in China stems from compliance with local regulations. Apple has not enabled these features on devices purchased in China, even if users change the language or region settings. This limitation is consistent with Apple’s approach to adhering to regional laws and regulations. The restriction affects iPhones, iPads, and Macs bought in China, which are identified by a specific model number ending in “CH.”

3. Implications and Strategic Risks

The unavailability of Apple Intelligence in China poses several risks:

• National Security: The restriction aligns with China’s regulatory environment, which may prioritize data sovereignty and control over foreign technology.
• Regional Stability: The limitation may influence consumer behavior and preferences, potentially affecting Apple’s market share in China.
• Economic Interests: The inability to access AI features could impact user satisfaction and deter potential buyers, affecting Apple’s revenue from the Chinese market.

4. Recommendations and Outlook

Recommendations:

• Apple should consider negotiating with Chinese authorities to find a compliant solution that allows AI features while respecting local laws.
• Users in China should be informed about the limitations before purchasing Apple devices to manage expectations.
• Explore technological solutions that could enable AI features without breaching local regulations.

Outlook:

Best-case scenario: Apple reaches an agreement with Chinese regulators, enabling AI features on devices purchased in China.

Worst-case scenario: Continued restrictions lead to a decline in Apple’s market share in China as users opt for alternative brands with fewer limitations.

Most likely outcome: Apple maintains its compliance with local laws, and users adapt to the limitations by purchasing devices outside China or using alternative solutions.

5. Key Individuals and Entities

The report references Ahmed Al Ashwal and Bloomberg as sources of information regarding Apple’s compliance with local legislation and potential partnerships to enable AI features.