Apple Music to Add Metadata System for Labels and Distributors to Tag AI Content
Apple is introducing a new policy for artists and distributors, mandating the disclosure of AI use in new music submissions. This requirement covers all aspects of a release, including song snippets, lyrics, album art, and music videos.
Key Changes for Artists and Labels
- Transparency Tags: According to 9to5mac, Apple has notified music labels and distributors that they must use special metadata tags to identify content created with artificial intelligence.
- A Step Toward Clarity: The company states these tags are a first step toward greater transparency as the industry adapts to new creative possibilities offered by AI.
- Four Covered Areas: The policy specifically targets AI's involvement in album art, lyrics (particularly when AI generates a large portion), musical elements, and music videos.
- Partner Responsibility: Apple is leaving it to its partners to define what constitutes AI-generated content and apply the tags manually. It remains unclear how the company will verify these disclosures.
This initiative aligns with broader industry trends. In February 2026, Nikkei reported that Sony developed a tool to identify original music used in AI-generated tracks, aiming to establish a fair revenue-sharing system.