Apple's AI Service Charging Plan Delayed, Not Yet Available in China

Apple's AI Service Charging Plan Delayed, Not Yet Available in ChinaOn August 12th, rumors circulated that Apple would charge for its AI assistant, AppleIntelligence, using a subscription model with a monthly fee of $20. However, renowned Apple analyst Mark Gurman refuted these claims in his latest report

Apple's AI Service Charging Plan Delayed, Not Yet Available in China

On August 12th, rumors circulated that Apple would charge for its AI assistant, AppleIntelligence, using a subscription model with a monthly fee of $20. However, renowned Apple analyst Mark Gurman refuted these claims in his latest report. While he acknowledged that Apple will charge for certain AppleIntelligence features in the future, he stated that this wouldn't happen for at least three years.

Gurman believes that Apple is currently lagging behind other manufacturers in the AI field and is in a catch-up phase. Charging for AI features at this stage would be "a foolish move," he argued. He anticipates Apple to split AppleIntelligence into two parts: one remaining free but with limited functionality, and another with paid features. However, he believes that Apple's current AI capabilities are still rudimentary and not yet at a level worthy of charging. He estimates that it will take at least three years for Apple to develop "something worth charging for."

It's noteworthy that the code for iOS 18.1 confirms that Apple will not launch AppleIntelligence in mainland China for the time being, and Chinese models won't have access to any AI features. Nevertheless, Apple CEO Tim Cook mentioned during a conference call that Apple has engaged with relevant regulatory authorities to expedite the launch of AppleIntelligence in Europe and China.

The Chinese market is crucial for Apple, and as AI is a central focus for Apple's future development, the company will undoubtedly make every effort to push its launch in China. However, it appears that the launch of AppleIntelligence in China will require further waiting.

Analysis of the Reasons for the Delay in Apple's AI Service Charging Plan:

• Immature AI Features: Apple's current AI features are still relatively basic and cannot meet users' needs for paid services.

• Market Competitive Pressure: Apple trails behind other manufacturers in the AI field, and charging now might compromise its market competitiveness.

• Incomplete China Market Deployment: AppleIntelligence has not yet been released in China, and a charging plan is currently unsuitable for Chinese users.

Predictions for the Future Trend of Apple's AI Service Charging Plan:

• Tiered Charging Model: AppleIntelligence will adopt a tiered charging model in the future, with some features being free and others being paid.

• More Powerful Features: Apple will continue to invest in research and development, launching more powerful AI features to meet users' paid service demands.

• China Market Deployment: Apple will actively promote the launch of AppleIntelligence in China and maintain communication with regulatory authorities.

Conclusion:

Apple's AI service charging plan faces numerous challenges and will not be implemented in the short term. The Chinese market has yet to open up to AppleIntelligence, and further waiting is required. However, Apple will continue to invest in AI research and development and explore suitable charging models to ultimately achieve the commercialization of its AI services.