As Apple slows its AI rollout, Chinese brands race to woo iPhone users with AI features

iPhone

Apple’s delay in bringing its new AI features to China has created an unusual moment in the smartphone world. For the first time in years, Chinese brands see a real opening to attract iPhone users who are growing curious about what Apple’s rivals are offering. While Apple waits for regulatory approval, companies like Honor, Huawei, Oppo, Vivo and Xiaomi have wasted no time showcasing their own AI tools in the hope of winning over users who might be considering a switch.

According to a report in the Financial Times, these brands are promoting features that make shifting from an iPhone far smoother than before. Some are even encouraging users to use an iPhone and a Chinese phone together. The timing is important because Apple’s AI rollout in China has been held up due to ongoing geopolitical tensions between the US and China. Along with that, Apple’s growth in the Chinese market has slowed, giving competitors a rare chance to push ahead.

Counterpoint Research data shows no single company holds more than 20 percent market share in China. Apple was the leader until recently, but Vivo overtook it in the third quarter of 2025. Apple’s shipments fell modestly year-on-year, and its market share dropped to 13.6 percent. With Apple losing momentum and its AI features still waiting for approval, Chinese brands sense an opportunity to shine.

To make switching easier, companies are investing heavily in tools that help users move their data smoothly from iOS. Honor has updated its Device Clone app so users can transfer photos, contacts and messages by simply scanning a QR code. Oppo now lets iPhone users check notifications, take calls and reply to messages directly from its latest phones, almost like using two phones as one. Xiaomi is expected to add similar options with its upcoming HyperOS 3 flagships.

But beyond switching tools, these brands are leaning heavily on AI to differentiate themselves. Oppo has introduced AI assistants that monitor spending by reading screenshots and guide workouts using the camera. Honor phones can compare coupons across apps, speed up ride-hailing bookings and even generate short videos on their own. These are features that Chinese consumers can use right now, while Apple’s AI remains stuck in the approval pipeline.

Analysts say Apple still dominates the premium segment outside China. But inside the country, the competition is heating up. If Apple continues to wait, Chinese brands may turn this temporary advantage into long-term loyalty from users who were once firmly inside the iPhone ecosystem.