When you use music in your Instagram stories or posts, you are using music that has been validated under a licensing agreement. That is, the Meta group approaches record companies in order to obtain authorization (for a financial transaction) to use their music. An agreement has just been renewed between Universal Music Group and Meta, users of the Threads, Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp applications can continue to use music owned by Universal.
Extension of the agreement
Meta recently announced the extension of its licensing agreement with Universal Music Group (UMG). This renewed partnership allows users to share tracks from Universal’s massive and impressive music library across Meta’s various applications and operating systems, expanding content creation and sharing options for millions of users around the world.
One of the major new features of the deal is the fight against AI-generated music without the permission of the original creators. Universal Music Group, a fierce protector of artists’ rights, insisted on this point during negotiations, mentioning that unauthorized use of AI-generated music harms not only artists, but also their revenues and those of their record labels. Universal and Meta therefore commit to working together to identify and remove AI-generated music content that has not received artist approval.
Meta, for its part, has affirmed its commitment to an ethical approach to AI-generated music. The company has recently released several AI models, including AudioCraft, MusicGen and Jasco, designed to create music. However, Meta assures that these models are exclusively trained on music owned or licensed by the company, acknowledging the risk of misuse of these technologies.
This approach shows that Meta is aware of the ethical and legal implications of AI and wants to contribute positively to the music ecosystem, while providing innovative tools to creators.
Universal Music Group’s music on new apps from Meta
Another major development in the deal is the integration of Universal Music Group’s licensed music across new Meta apps. For the first time, WhatsApp users will be able to share tracks licensed from Universal. Additionally, the deal now includes integration with Threads, giving users new ways to express themselves.
By renewing their partnership, Meta and Universal Music Group are reaffirming their commitment to supporting creators while adapting to new technological realities, such as generative AI. This collaboration is a vital step in ensuring that music remains a domain where artists’ rights are protected, while providing Meta users with innovative ways to share and discover music.