YouTube Music adds AI labels

YouTube Music has introduced labels to identify tracks primarily created using artificial intelligence. These labels appear under the cover art of tracks in the YouTube Music player and provide information about the role of AI in the track when users tap on them.

AI labels focus on central roles

According to YouTube, the labels will not apply to all AI-related tracks, but only those where AI plays a central role, such as in composition or voice generation. The labels will also appear in the main YouTube app, though the exact date for this feature has not been specified.

Identification methods used

YouTube uses a combination of its own detection tools and statements from musical partners to identify AI-generated tracks. Labels and distributors can classify each title as "Fully Gen AI" (entirely generated by AI), "Partly Gen AI" (partially), or "No Gen AI."

AI use in minor ways

The "No Gen AI" category includes tracks where AI is used in minor ways, such as voice correction with Auto-Tune. In the absence of a declaration from labels or distributors, YouTube relies on its own signals to determine the classification.

Deezer handles large AI volume

Deezer receives "nearly 75,000 AI-generated titles each day" and is working to protect its users and artists. Deezer has already excluded AI-generated tracks from its algorithmic recommendations and editorial playlists and is preparing an option to completely hide them.

Tidal allows filtering of AI tracks

Tidal already allows subscribers to disable AI-generated tracks. YouTube Music does not offer a feature allowing users to filter or exclude AI-generated tracks from its recommendations. However, Deezer plans to add a button to exclude AI-generated music.

Monetization of AI tracks unclear

YouTube Music has not specified whether AI-generated tracks flagged with the label can still be monetized. This leaves questions about the financial implications for creators and platforms involved in AI-generated music.