Spotify announced on Thursday a series of agreements with major record labels to create new artificial intelligence products. The partnerships with Sony, Universal, Warner, and Merlin are intended to develop “responsible AI” tools. These tools are designed to respect copyright and provide artists with the choice to allow the use of their work in AI applications.
The company has not detailed the specific operations of the new tools. Spotify currently offers generative AI experiences to its users, such as an AI DJ that curates a personalized music selection and features that allow users to generate playlists from text prompts.
This development follows recent criticism directed at Spotify after an AI-generated band’s music gained viral popularity on the platform, which prompted discussions about the future role of human artists in music.
Last month, Spotify revised its AI policy to address spam, specifically targeting users who upload AI-generated content at a mass scale, create duplicate tracks, or manipulate the service’s search and recommendation systems. During that update, the company also stated it would adopt the DDEX music labeling system to indicate when AI has been used in the creation of a track.
The forthcoming generative AI features align with these recent changes by allowing artists to opt into using the new tools. The planned system is expected to enable artists to identify when their music is incorporated into AI-generated tracks and to receive some form of payment. Spotify has indicated that this system will eventually be extended to include other rights holders and distributors.
In its announcement, Spotify stated its position on copyright. “Some voices in the tech industry believe copyright should be abolished. We don’t. Musicians’ rights matter. Copyright is essential,” the company shared. “If the music industry doesn’t lead in this moment, AI‑powered innovation will happen elsewhere, without rights, consent, or compensation. Together with rights holders, artists, and songwriters, we are making significant investments in AI research and product development.”
Additionally, Spotify confirmed it has started to build a generative AI research lab and a dedicated product team. This team is focused on developing technologies that support the principle of artist choice regarding participation in the AI music ecosystem. The company reports that work on the initial products has already begun, and more tools are planned for future development.
