Apple Music will tag up AI-generated tracks, report says

Source: Mashable Tech

Background

Distinguishing AI‑generated music on streaming platforms is becoming increasingly difficult. Companies such as Spotify and Apple Music are working to make AI‑created content more transparent for listeners.

Apple Music’s “Transparency Tags”

Apple Music is adding “Transparency Tags” to indicate whether a track, its artwork, composition, or music video involves artificial‑intelligence generation. According to a report by Music Business Worldwide, Apple sent a newsletter to industry partners outlining new metadata requirements for uploads. Labels must apply the appropriate tags if AI was used in production.

The tags are listed in Apple Music Specification 5.3.25, where they appear to be optional—if a tag is omitted, the system assumes none is present. Enforcement of the tagging requirement will therefore depend on Apple Music’s policies.

Industry Context

Spotify began adding AI disclosures through metadata in September 2025, collaborating with the Digital Data Exchange (DDEX) to let artists and rights holders indicate where AI contributed to a track (e.g., AI‑generated vocals, instrumentation, or post‑production). This initiative is separate from Spotify’s recommendation engine, which has continued to surface AI‑generated music to users in 2026.

The push for clearer labeling follows incidents such as the Velvet Sundown controversy, which highlighted listener concerns about undisclosed AI content.

Public Perception

A 2025 study by Deezer and Ipsos found that:

• 97 % of respondents could not tell an AI‑generated song from a human‑made one.
• 80 % want clear labels for AI music.
• 72 % want to know when AI‑generated tracks are being recommended to them.

These findings underscore the demand for transparent labeling across media, not just music.

Outlook

Introducing mandatory AI transparency tags on streaming platforms is a positive step toward informing listeners and maintaining trust in digital music services.