Streaming platforms are increasingly integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into their services, notably with music creation.
On Wednesday, February 18, Google DeepMind announced that its latest generative music model, Lyria 3, is rolling out in beta within the Gemini app. The feature allows users aged 18 or older to generate 30-second music tracks from text prompts or uploaded images.
Google said the system is designed to support original composition rather than direct imitation. “Music generation with Lyria 3 is designed for original expression, not for mimicking existing artists,” the company stated. It added that if a prompt includes the name of a specific artist, the system interprets it as creative inspiration and produces music in a similar mood or style.
To address copyright and attribution concerns, Google said all AI-generated tracks created through the Gemini app are embedded with SynthID, an imperceptible digital watermark that identifies AI-generated content. The company also introduced audio verification tools that allow users to upload a file and check whether it was generated using Google AI systems.
Google acknowledged limitations in its safeguards. “We recognize that our approach might not be foolproof,” the company stated, adding that users can report content that may violate intellectual property rights. It further emphasised that users must comply with its Terms of Service and generative AI policies, which prohibit infringement of intellectual property and privacy rights.
Music creation through Lyria 3 is also being integrated into YouTube’s Dream Track feature for Shorts creators.
Beyond song generation, major streaming platforms have also introduced AI-powered playlist tools. YouTube Music launched AI Playlist features for Premium subscribers in the United States and selected markets, allowing users to create playlists through text prompts. Apple Music is testing a similar feature known as “Playlist Playground,” while Spotify offers prompt-based playlist creation. These tools curate licensed music but do not generate original compositions.
At the same time, technology to monitor AI-generated music is advancing. On February 16, 2026, Sony Group disclosed that it has developed a system capable of analysing AI-generated songs to identify underlying works used in training or influence. According to the company, the technology can estimate the proportional contribution of original artists to a generated track and may support royalty negotiations between rights holders and AI developers.
Sony said the system can connect directly to an AI developer’s model, where cooperation is available, or estimate influence by comparing AI-generated output with existing music. The company has not announced a timeline for commercial deployment.
However, despite the introduction of watermarking and detection tools, copyright obligations remain in place. AI-generated content is subject to platform rules and existing intellectual property laws.
