Spotify Strengthens Rules for AI Music and Deepfakes
amsterdam, dinsdag, 30 september 2025.
Spotify has introduced new rules to ensure transparency and prevent the misuse of AI music and deepfakes. In collaboration with DDEX, an authority in the music industry, the platform is developing a standardised format for music credits. This measure will require labels and distributors to clearly indicate how AI has been used in tracks. Additionally, deepfakes and unauthorised voice imitations are banned, and a new spam detection system will tackle fraudulent uploads. Spotify has already removed 75 million spam tracks and hopes that these rules will preserve the integrity of music and protect artists.
Transparency First: New Music Credits
The core of Spotify’s approach is a standardised format for music credits, developed by DDEX, an authority in the music industry. This system will require labels, distributors, and other partners to precisely indicate how AI has been used in a track – think of vocals, instruments, or post-production. Fifteen major distributors and labels, including heavyweights, have already committed to using this format. Spotify hopes the rest of the industry will follow. This means listeners will soon know exactly where AI fits into their favourite tracks. [1]
No Room for Deepfakes
Spotify draws a clear line: AI-generated voice imitations, such as deepfakes or unauthorised copies of someone’s voice, are prohibited. If such a track is spotted, it will be immediately removed from the platform. This is a strong step to protect artists from the misuse of their voices and to maintain listener trust. No one wants a fake version of their favourite singer, right? [1]
Spam Filters Against Manipulation
In addition to AI rules, Spotify is also tackling lazy or misleading uploads. Later this year, the company will roll out a new spam detection system that recognises patterns, such as repeated uploads, misleading keywords, or content trying to trick the algorithms. Tracks flagged by the filter will disappear from recommendations. This aims to curb the flood of ‘junk’ content designed to harvest streams. Spotify will introduce the filter gradually to ensure it catches the right content, with plans to further refine the system. [1]
Why This Matters
With AI shaking up the music industry, Spotify aims to keep the game fair. Transparency about AI usage provides clarity to fans and artists, while the ban on deepfakes protects creative control. The spam filter should keep the platform clean of clutter, ensuring listeners only get the best tracks. But will this really stop the rapid growth of AI music, or is it just a drop in the ocean? [1]
Impact of the Rules
Spotify has already removed 75 million spam tracks in the past year due to the increasing ability to create fake music with AI. This action is one of the largest ever undertaken by a streaming platform. The new rules were implemented on 29 September 2025, and their impact will be evaluated within three months of implementation. Spotify is determined to maintain the integrity of its platforms and protect artists from misuse. [2][3]