These updates are part of a larger change that SoundCloud is undergoing right now. Now, the social media platform gets to use uploaded user content to train artificial intelligence. This modification goes into effect on February 12, 2024. As it does this, we believe that it should thoughtfully embed AI-powered tools into our offerings and honor the rights of creators and third-party stakeholders.
The updated terms state that users “explicitly agree that your Content may be used to inform, train, develop or serve as input to artificial intelligence or machine intelligence technologies or services as part of and for providing the services.” This provision puts SoundCloud in a position to use UGC to train AI without paying creators. It poses serious questions regarding the implications for artists and other producers.
As part of these efforts to empower creators, SoundCloud emphasized its intent to continue to use AI ethically. The company pledged to “uphold ethical and transparent AI practices that respect creators’ rights.” Our hope is that this statement will provide confidence to users that their interests are being protected in the rush of new AI developments.
SoundCloud does not lack experience working with third-party rightsholders, including record labels and other content owners. To its credit, the platform has gone out of its way to include explicit provisions protecting these relationships. Specifically, it says that content in “distinct agreements” with the rightsholders would be excluded from its AI models. This move is a big step towards SoundCloud recognizing that the world, especially regarding copyright and ownership, is more complicated in the digital age.
To enhance its platform, SoundCloud has partnered with nearly a dozen vendors to introduce AI-powered tools designed for remixing, generating vocals, and creating custom samples. This partnership and ongoing efforts will enhance the user experience and offer creators new, cutting-edge tools to unleash their creativity.
More importantly, SoundCloud wanted to make clear its intention to ensure that everyone that participates receives the right attribution and payment for their work. In a recent blog post, the platform reiterated its dedication to safeguarding the rights of content creators by implementing access to content ID solutions. The goal of this national initiative is to see rights holders recognized and paid fairly for their important work.
Critics came out in droves to protect against the changes, warning about their chilling impact. Ed Newton-Rex commented on the matter, stating, “SoundCloud seems to claim the right to train on people’s uploaded music in their terms. I think they have major questions to answer over this.” These types of comments underscore the growing discussion around the ethics of how user-generated content is used to train AI.