Apple Inc.’s iPhones will use Alibaba Group Holding Ltd.’s artificial intelligence technology in China, the Chinese firm’s chairman said, affirming reports that the e-commerce pioneer had scored a coveted role in helping power the iPhone.

Apple’s introduction of AI features has been slow. The iPhone 16 launched without Apple Intelligence, which only appeared a month later. In China, strict regulations have prevented Apple from releasing any AI features. Consequently, Apple’s sales have dropped for the first time in years.

Apple has partnered with Alibaba to incorporate AI into iPhones in China, advancing its strategy in the largest smartphone market.