SoundCloud has introduced subtle modifications to its terms of use, granting itself permission to utilize user-uploaded audio for artificial intelligence development on its platform. Observers noticed the update in February, which now states that content may contribute to AI or machine intelligence tools and services on SoundCloud, with specific exceptions given to third-party licensors such as music labels covered by separate contracts.
Users seeking a straightforward method to opt out could not find such an option on the SoundCloud website, and the company was unavailable for immediate comment. This shift comes as many digital platforms grow more open to integrating AI, reshaping their own rules accordingly.
AI Practices and Clarifications from SoundCloud
Last year, SoundCloud began offering a variety of AI-driven features such as remixing, vocal generation, and custom sample creation by forming partnerships with numerous vendors. The company highlighted its approach to content identification, aiming to provide creators with recognition and compensation, and maintained a commitment to ethical AI use that respects artists’ rights.
Despite apprehensions from some in the music community over how their contributions might be leveraged for technology training, SoundCloud representatives recently clarified their stance through a public statement. The company explained that artist-uploaded tracks are not used for training external generative AI models, nor are third parties allowed to scrape SoundCloud content for such purposes.
According to SoundCloud, measures like a designated “no AI” tag and other technological safeguards have been established to prevent unauthorized AI-related use of uploaded music. The updated terms are intended to clarify that any AI activities remain strictly within the platform, supporting recommendations, content organization, fraud protection, and content identification.
Examples of this internal use include playlist generation, artist discovery tools, and support for identifying fraudulent activities, all within the constraints of existing music licensing deals. By continuing to align with industry standards and ethical guidelines, SoundCloud aims to both innovate with new technologies and keep artists informed as music platform policies and regulations evolve.
Moving forward, SoundCloud assures its community that SoundCloud AI training tools on the platform are designed to highlight and empower human creators rather than replace their work. The platform emphasizes its pledge to transparency and open dialogue as it explores new AI-based features and protections for artists.
