AI Art2026-08-07
TechCrunch AI
Suno to Start Watermarking Songs Amid Legal Battles
AI music startup Suno is taking a significant step toward transparency by introducing watermarking technology for all songs generated on its platform. The announcement comes as the company navigates multiple legal challenges related to copyright infringement, with critics questioning the ethical boundaries of AI-generated music.
CEO Mikey Shulman outlined the new initiative, which pairs watermarking with a revised download policy. The goal, he explained, is to increase traceability and curb the spread of spammy AI tracks that have flooded streaming services. By embedding invisible markers into audio files, Suno aims to help platforms and listeners identify AI-generated content more easily.
This move is widely seen as an attempt to establish legitimacy in a rapidly evolving industry. While some artists have welcomed the change, others remain skeptical, arguing that watermarking alone does not address the underlying issue of using copyrighted material for training models. Suno, however, insists that the technology is a step toward responsible AI deployment.
The watermarking feature will be rolled out gradually, with users expected to see the new download policy in the coming months. As legal proceedings continue, Suno is betting that proactive measures will strengthen its position and set a precedent for other AI music platforms.