While they haven’t made it public knowledge, SoundCloud has updated its terms of use, allowing the company to train AI through audio users have uploaded.
The latest version of SoundCloud’s terms and conditions gives the platform access to user uploads in order to develop AI software. This isn’t something that was made public knowledge, it seems only those who actually read the terms are aware.
If we’re honest, most of us are guilty of ticking the button to agree to terms and conditions without having actually read what they say. It’s become a human default to not read the page or pages long text.
However, Ed Newton-Rex who is a tech ethicist did read the updated terms and was therefore the one to spot this big change. The changes aren’t all that new, either. They came into effect as of the 7th February.
“You explicitly agree that your Content may be used to inform, train, develop or serve as input to artificial intelligence or machine intelligence technologies or services as part of and for providing the services,”
SoundCloud’s terms and conditions
It seems, tracks that fall under third-party agreements with alternative rightsholders have different specifications. For example, SoundCloud has multiple agreements with huge labels such as Universal Music and Warner Music Group.
It’s unlikely these labels would agree to the new terms, so potentially there are exceptions to the rule. However, there doesn’t seem to be an opt-out option, so music artists aren’t able to make this decision for themselves.
As of last year, SoundCloud partnered with many AI providers to include AI-powered tools. Therefore, allowing remixing and vocals creation with minimal effort. However, these tools all need training somehow, perhaps this a clause in their agreements.
They revealed in a blog post last year that these partners would have access to content ID solutions, and they went on to say they would “ensure rights holders [sic] receive proper credit and compensation” but, does this still count if it’s now part of their terms?
What are your thoughts, would you be ok with this update? Has it made you think twice about uploading your content to SoundCloud? After all, AI tools do need to have regular access to content in order to progress, but, should this be optional?
