Apple Music is preparing to introduce transparency tags that allow record labels to disclose when AI was used in music, lyrics, artwork, or videos, reflecting growing industry pressure for clarity around AI-generated content. (Source: Image by RR)

Labels Can Flag AI in Music, Lyrics, Artwork, or Video

Apple Music is reportedly preparing to introduce “Transparency Tags” that will allow record labels and distributors to identify when artificial intelligence was used in the creation of music on the platform. The change, revealed in a newsletter sent to industry partners, would update Apple’s metadata system so distributors can flag whether AI was involved in different elements of a release.

Metadata fields, according to an article in techcrunch.com, typically include details such as song titles, album names, genres, and artist credits, but Apple’s new system will expand this framework to include AI-related disclosures. Labels will be able to specify whether AI was used in the music itself, lyrics or composition, cover artwork, or accompanying music videos, providing more clarity about how the technology contributed to the final product.

However, the transparency system will rely on voluntary disclosures from distributors, meaning it will only work if labels actively choose to tag their releases. Other streaming services, including Spotify, are reportedly exploring similar approaches. Meanwhile, platforms like Deezer are experimenting with automated AI detection tools, though accurately identifying AI-generated content remains a technical challenge.

The move reflects a growing push across the music industry for greater transparency around AI-generated content, as generative tools become more common in songwriting, production, and visual artwork. By introducing AI-related metadata tags, Apple Music appears to be taking an early step toward helping listeners understand how much artificial intelligence contributed to the music they hear.

read more at techcrunch.com