SoundCloud: No User Music for Generative AI Training (Currently)

SoundCloud Addresses AI Training Concerns: Your Music is Not Currently Used for Generative AI Recent updates to SoundCloud's terms of service sparked concern among artists and users regarding the potential use of their uploaded music to train generative artificial intelligence (AI) models. However, the music-sharing platform has issued statements clarifying its current practices, asserting that it is not, and has never, used artist content for such purposes. The controversy arose after a February 2024 update to SoundCloud's terms of use included language that appeared to grant the platform permission to use uploaded content to "inform, train, [or] develop" AI. This change, first highlighted by tech ethicist Ed Newton-Rex, led to considerable backlash from the creative community, worried that their work could be used without explicit consent to create new AI-generated music. SoundCloud's Official Stance: No Current Use for Generative AI In response to the growing concerns, SoundCloud has been clear in its communications. Marni Greenberg, SVP and Head of Communications at SoundCloud, stated, "SoundCloud has never used artist content to train AI models, nor do we develop AI tools or allow third parties to scrape or use SoundCloud content from our platform for AI training purposes." This message was reiterated across multiple statements to various media outlets. SoundCloud explained that the February 2024 terms of service update was intended to "clarify how content may interact with AI technologies within SoundCloud’s own platform." The company provided examples of such AI applications, which include: Personalized playlist generation Music recommendations Fraud detection Artist discovery and content organization (utilizing tools like their partner Musiio) Crucially, SoundCloud emphasizes that these uses are distinct from training generative AI models capable of creating new music. Safeguards and Distinctions in Terms SoundCloud also highlighted measures taken to protect content. "In fact, we implemented technical safeguards, including a “no AI” tag on our site to explicitly prohibit unauthorized use," a spokesperson noted. Furthermore, the platform draws a distinction regarding licensed content. The terms of service "explicitly prohibit the use of licensed content, such as music from major labels, for training any AI models, including generative AI." However, for other types of content uploaded to SoundCloud, the updated terms do allow for the possibility of AI-related use, which initially fueled the concerns. Future Possibilities and Artist Concerns Remain While SoundCloud firmly denies current use of user-created content for generative AI training, it has not entirely ruled out this possibility for the future. This ambiguity continues to be a point of concern for some artists. Ed Newton-Rex voiced this sentiment, stating, "This is particularly worrying because the terms of service clearly allow it. I think it’s important they rule this out and update their terms accordingly." In an effort to address these ongoing concerns, SoundCloud has promised to introduce clear opt-outs "in advance" should they ever consider training generative AI models with artists’ work. The company also stated its commitment to "open dialogue" and ensuring artists "will continue to have control over their work." SoundCloud's overarching message is that any application of AI on its platform "will be designed to support human artists, enhancing the tools, capabilities, reach and opportunities available to them." The situation highlights the evolving landscape of AI and intellectual property in the music industry. While SoundCloud's current stance is clear, the dialogue between platforms, artists, and users regarding AI's role in music creation and content usage is likely to continue as technology advances.

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