SoundCloud's New AI Training Policy: What It Means for Creators

SoundCloud has quietly updated its terms of use to allow the platform to utilize user-uploaded content for training artificial intelligence (AI). This move marks a significant shift in the platform’s approach to AI and its relationship with creators. Users who upload audio to SoundCloud are now granting the platform permission to use their content to "inform, train, or develop" AI technologies. If you’re wondering how this might impact your content and rights, keep reading.

Understanding SoundCloud’s Updated Terms

The latest terms of service, updated on February 7, 2025, explicitly state that any content uploaded to SoundCloud can be used for AI development. The clause allows SoundCloud to use your audio to train and refine AI models, without requiring separate consent. However, it’s important to note that there is a carve-out for content under existing licensing agreements with third-party rightsholders, such as major labels like Universal Music and Warner Music Group. This means if you’ve signed exclusive agreements with record labels, your content may be excluded from AI training under these new terms.

As the AI landscape evolves, platforms like SoundCloud are increasingly leaning into AI technologies to enhance user experience. This change follows a broader trend where tech platforms are embracing AI to improve content creation tools and services.

How Does This Impact SoundCloud Creators?

The question on many creators' minds is whether they have control over this new AI training process. Unfortunately, SoundCloud's new terms don’t provide an obvious opt-out option for users. This means unless you are under specific agreements with third-party rightsholders, your content could potentially be used to train AI models without your explicit permission. While this decision has sparked discussions around user rights and AI transparency, SoundCloud has yet to provide a clear opt-out feature within its web settings.

Creators should be aware of how these updates could affect their ability to control their content and the potential for it to be used in AI models. As AI tools become more integrated into creative workflows, understanding the implications of these policies becomes crucial for artists and producers alike.

The Growing Trend of AI Training on User Content

SoundCloud is not alone in this shift towards AI-driven platforms. In recent months, several major tech platforms have updated their terms to include AI training clauses. For example, X (formerly Twitter) updated its privacy policy to allow third-party companies to use user posts for AI training. Similarly, LinkedIn and YouTube have made changes that permit AI training on user data and clips.

This wave of AI integrations has raised concerns among users, especially those who believe AI training should be opt-in rather than opt-out. Many creators are advocating for better transparency and fair compensation for their contributions to AI datasets, hoping that platforms will adopt policies that prioritize their rights and earnings.

Should You Be Concerned?

While some creators may worry about the ethical implications of AI training on their content, it’s important to note that SoundCloud has committed to maintaining ethical AI practices. Last year, the platform partnered with several AI tool vendors to offer services like remixing, vocal generation, and custom sample creation. In its blog posts, SoundCloud assured users that its content ID solutions would ensure proper credit and compensation for rights holders.

However, this recent policy shift may push more creators to consider whether they want their content to be used in AI training, especially as the demand for AI-driven music production tools grows. If you're a SoundCloud creator, staying informed about these changes and understanding your rights within the platform will help you navigate the future of AI in music.

Key Takeaways for SoundCloud Creators:

• SoundCloud’s new terms allow AI training on uploaded content.

• There is no clear opt-out option, though third-party licensing agreements may protect some content.

• AI in the music industry is growing, and creators need to be aware of how it could impact their rights and earnings.

With AI becoming a central focus of many tech platforms, SoundCloud’s policy change is just one of many that will affect how creators interact with their content. Understanding these updates and how they may impact you as a creator is vital in an era where AI is shaping the future of music production. Stay informed and make sure your voice is heard in conversations about fair compensation and transparency.