Apple has completed another important regulatory step ahead of the expected launch of Apple Intelligence in China this December. The latest approval covers iPads and Macs, potentially paving the way for the AI features to expand beyond the iPhone.

According to a report from Reuters, Apple Intelligence has been registered for use on tablets and laptops in China, Shanghai's cyberspace regulator announced on Monday.

Apple Intelligence Registered for iPad and Mac in China

Apple confirmed in late October that it plans to bring Apple Intelligence to China in December as part of iOS 27.3.

Following the announcement, Apple released the first iOS 27.3 developer beta, allowing users in China to begin testing Apple Intelligence ahead of its expected public rollout.

However, Apple's initial announcement indicated that the launch would be limited to iPhones, with support for other devices still awaiting regulatory approval.

The latest registration marks an important development. Apple Intelligence has now cleared another regulatory requirement, covering tablets and laptops in addition to the iPhone.

How Apple Intelligence Works in China

China requires generative AI services to complete a regulatory registration process before they can be made available to the public.

Apple Intelligence in China is expected to rely on Alibaba's Qwen AI model to power certain features, reflecting Apple's approach to working with a local partner to meet regional requirements.

Apple had already secured regulatory approval for Apple Intelligence on iPhones in July, following months of delays and discussions with Chinese authorities.

The latest registration for tablets and laptops removes another regulatory obstacle, although it does not necessarily mean those devices will receive the features at the same time as iPhones.

Will Apple Intelligence Arrive on iPad and Mac in December?

Despite the latest progress, Apple has not confirmed whether Apple Intelligence will launch simultaneously on iPhone, iPad, and Mac in China this December.

The company's previously announced December rollout remains focused on iPhone support, while the timing of iPad and Mac availability is still unclear.

If Apple expands the rollout to these platforms, users in China could gain access to a broader range of Apple Intelligence features across its device ecosystem.

For now, the regulatory registration is an encouraging step, but Apple has yet to announce a confirmed release schedule for iPad and Mac.

Source: 9to5mac