Sony Group has developed new technology that can detect copyrighted music in AI‑generated songs, a move that could help music creators earn payment when their work is used without permission.
The system, created by Sony AI, can identify original music inside tracks generated by artificial intelligence models. Company officials say the tool may form the basis of a framework that pays songwriters and artists based on how their work contributes to AI output.
How the Technology Works
The new technology uses two approaches to spot copyrighted material in AI songs:
- With cooperation: If AI developers share access, Sony can connect directly to the base AI model and check training data.
- Without cooperation: If developers do not cooperate, the system compares AI songs to Sony’s music catalog to find matches or likely sources.
Sony’s goal is to estimate how much an original song influenced an AI‑generated one. This could help calculate fair compensation for creators whose work helped train or shape AI music.
Why This Matters
AI music generators are becoming more common, but many copyright owners say these tools often use protected songs without permission. Sony and other labels have previously sued AI platforms like Suno and Udio for what they called “mass infringement” of copyrighted tracks.
The new tracking tech could change how AI models are held accountable. By identifying original works inside generated content, rights holders may demand payment or licensing fees more easily.
Industry Reaction
Experts say the system could shift how AI music is regulated and monetised. If widely adopted, it might push AI developers to obtain proper licences before training or generating music.
Sony has not yet said when the technology will be available commercially. However, the company expects AI developers to add the tools to their systems and for music companies to use them in licensing negotiations.
Context in the Wider Music Tech Landscape
Efforts to detect copyrighted material in AI outputs are not new. Sony and others have previously worked on tools like neural fingerprinting to spot infringements. In addition, major music companies are negotiating licensing deals with AI platforms to ensure artists get fair pay.
These moves reflect growing concern among creators about artificial intelligence’s impact on music rights and royalties.
What Happens Next?
Sony may integrate this technology with industry partners and licensing platforms. Rights holders are expected to watch closely for updates as music, law, and AI continue to intersect.
Conclusion
Sony’s new technology aims to identify copyrighted music in AI‑generated songs. The development could give creators a way to get paid when their work is used by generative AI, and it underscores the evolving challenge of balancing innovation with copyright protection.
For the latest updates on this developing story, stay tuned to Faiz.tv.
