SoundCloud has announced changes to its terms of service after facing criticism over a clause that sparked concern regarding artificial intelligence use. The company had previously updated its policies with language that led many to believe it might legally permit training artificial intelligence using audio uploaded by its users.
Despite SoundCloud’s assurances that it had no plans to develop artificial intelligence using customer uploads, these statements did little to calm users’ worries about potential future actions. In response to the ongoing controversy, SoundCloud’s CEO Eliah Seton addressed the issue publicly in an open letter.
Adjustments to Policy after User Feedback
Seton acknowledged the amended terms were not clear and stated the company’s intention was primarily about leveraging artificial intelligence for functionalities like recommendations and fraud prevention. The language used, he admitted, was too general and created unnecessary confusion among the platform’s community.
To clarify its position, SoundCloud has now updated its policies again, promising that uploaded content will not be used to train generative artificial intelligence systems meant to imitate users’ voices, music, or personal likeness. These revisions aim to clearly separate internal artificial intelligence tools, such as anti-fraud software, from the type of data collection that had caused concern.
The company’s move comes as musicians and creators increasingly demand transparency from platforms hosting their work, especially as AI model training becomes more advanced and pervasive across the industry. Clear communication and specific policy wording are now central to SoundCloud’s approach as it seeks to restore trust with its global user base.
