Suno unveils watermarking tech to curb spammy AI music downloads

Suno, the AI music generation platform, is taking steps to curb the spread of spammy AI-generated tracks and improve transparency. In a lengthy blog post, CEO and co-founder Mikey Shulman unveiled plans to roll out new watermarking and fingerprinting technology that will make Suno-generated content easily identifiable. He said these measures align with emerging industry standards and will help distribution platforms and artists alike. The company also intends to partner with distribution platforms to jointly combat fraud and misuse, though it declined to provide specific technical details or timeline.

The new download policy is another key piece of Suno's strategy. Following a settlement with Warner Music Group (WMG), and a similar settlement between WMG and rival AI music platform Udio, Suno will limit downloads to paying subscribers and cap the number of downloads per month. Shulman emphasized the company's commitment to transparency and respect for rights holders, while also stating that Suno should not pass judgment on the artistic value of individual pieces — the decision to disclose AI use remains with artists and platforms. Suno didn't immediately respond to requests for specifics, but the post reassures stakeholders that human-made art remains central to the company's philosophy.