Trump Administration Raises Concerns Over Apple-Alibaba AI Deal in China
The Trump administration and U.S. congressional officials are scrutinising Apple’s reported plan to integrate Alibaba’s artificial intelligence technology into iPhones sold in China, according to The New York Times.
Officials are reportedly worried the deal could enhance China’s AI capabilities, expand the influence of censored Chinese chatbots, and increase Apple’s vulnerability to Beijing’s censorship and data-sharing laws.
The New York Times cited three individuals familiar with the matter.
In February, Alibaba confirmed a partnership with Apple to support AI services on iPhones in China.
The collaboration marks a significant achievement for Alibaba in China’s competitive AI sector, which includes rivals like DeepSeek. DeepSeek has gained attention for developing AI models at a fraction of the cost of Western counterparts.
Apple and Alibaba have not responded to requests for comment.
Reuters has not independently verified the New York Times report.
U.S. officials are reviewing Apple’s AI deal with Alibaba
Concerns include censorship, data sharing, and AI development
Alibaba confirmed the partnership in February
Source: REUTERS
