SoundCloud has responded to allegations that it utilizes artificial intelligence in training on music uploaded by users. A recent article from Futurism revealed that SoundCloud quietly updated its terms and conditions in February 2024 to permit AI training on content uploaded to the platform, sparking criticism from users. Twitter users expressed their discontent, with one user urging musicians and artists to reconsider keeping their music on SoundCloud.
Another user announced their decision to remove their music from the platform, citing concerns about their content being used without permission to train AI. The updated policy explicitly stated that user content may be used to inform, train, develop, or serve as input to artificial intelligence technologies. Founder of Fairly Trained, Ed Newton-Rex, called out SoundCloud’s revised terms in an op-ed where he criticized the platform’s actions in light of AI training.
SoundCloud’s representatives have countered the backlash by denying that they have ever used artist content to train AI models. Marni Greenberg, SVP and Head of Communications at SoundCloud, emphasized that the platform does not develop AI tools or allow third parties to utilize content for AI training purposes. They have implemented safeguards to prevent unauthorized use and clarify how content interacts with AI within SoundCloud’s platforms. Greenberg clarified that while licensed content from major labels is prohibited from training AI models, other types of content may have the potential for AI-related use
Read the full article from Mixmag here: Read More
