Summary

  • Music platform SoundCloud updated its terms of service in February last year to permit the use of AI to train its algorithms using user-generated content.
  • It has not used content from artists for AI training and has implemented safeguards to prevent this, but it hasn’t ruled out introducing opt-out mechanisms in future.
  • Such a move would be similar to those made by Instagram and Meta, which initially faced criticism for failing to inform users or offer opt-out choices.
  • SoundCloud aims to introduce permission controls for any future uses and maintain transparency with its artist community.
  • Opt-outs were not included in the updated terms, which prohibits the use of licensed content for AI training, although other content types may be used for AI-related purposes.
  • Tech ethicist Ed Newton-Rex said he was not informed of the changes, and neither were other users.
  • SoundCloud promises prominent notice of alterations, but this may not include direct communication.

By Wes Davis

Original Article