Universal Music Group Announces Expanded Licensing Deal with Meta

Universal Music Group (UMG) has announced an expanded global, multi-year licensing agreement with Meta, which will further enhance the creative and commercial opportunities for UMG artists and Universal Music Publishing Group (UMPG) songwriters across Meta's vast network of platforms. The new deal covers Facebook, Instagram, Messenger, Horizon, Threads, and for the first time, WhatsApp, reflecting the shared commitment of both companies to protect human creators and artistry, ensuring fair compensation for artists and songwriters.

One of the key elements of the new agreement is the provision of new regulations surrounding unauthorized AI-generated content that could potentially impact artists and songwriters. UMG has expressed its delight in Meta's artist-centric vision, which respects human creativity and ensures fair compensation for artists and songwriters. Both companies are committed to addressing the issue of unauthorized AI-generated content that could affect artists and songwriters, allowing UMG to continue protecting their rights both now and in the future.

This concern for protecting artists from AI-generated content has become a primary focus for IP holders and managers, as new tools enable novel ways to replicate artists' work. Without proper management, this could lead to individuals profiting from artists' likeness without permission. This is likely the reason behind platforms slowing down the development of functions that facilitate the creation of AI deepfakes of musicians. Last year, an AI-generated song that replicated the voices of Drake and The Weeknd briefly trended on TikTok and other apps before being gradually phased out due to copyright challenges.

The new UMG deal with Meta also hints at exciting new music options on WhatsApp. With WhatsApp experiencing a surge in interest, particularly in the United States, Meta may be looking to incorporate more functionality to expand discovery and engagement elements within the app. This could potentially involve music-type stickers within chats, allowing users to discuss the latest tracks or dedicated channels with new tools for musicians. It will be interesting to see what Meta develops and how this may impact future music promotions and engagement.

Additionally, the new terms include Meta's Horizon VR experience, which may facilitate new music experiences in virtual worlds. This partnership represents another important step for Meta's music ambitions, and with UMG previously battling with TikTok over music rights, it's a smart move for Meta to solidify this partnership in case of future tensions with other apps.

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