Here we go for another Weekly Roundup! As you may already know, there have been some new developments in “old” news stories; Apple, ethics and regulation about AI… Let’s not wait anymore and get the new edition of our Weekly Roundup!
#1. Guidelines for GenAI
This week, the Worldwide Independent Network (WIN), the organization that connects and develops the global independent music community, published their new guidelines on GenAI, built around five key principles. WIN calls on developers and policymakers to work with the independent music community to promote the responsible and ethical development of GenAI. From copyright to transparency commitment, WIN is advocating for a more human-centered approach.
In addition, the CPO and interim CEO of the Association of Independent Music (AIM), of which we are proud partners, points out that generative AI presents both opportunities and legitimate concerns. It is therefore crucial that laws adequately protect human artistic talent and innovation.
#2. Next up: 60 minutes content on TikTok
TikTok is reportedly currently testing videos that can last up to 60 minutes. However, this test is limited to certain users in specific markets, with no plans for expansion at the moment. Having made several moves in terms of maximum video length since 2021, the potential extension to 60 minutes could attract the attention of potential competitors such as YouTube, Disney, Netflix, and Spotify.
With YouTube in particular, this could mean increased competition for long-form content and advertising revenue. Netflix and Disney+ could also see TikTok as a competitor for viewing time and advertising revenue. For the music industry, the platform's extension of video length could open up opportunities in the lucrative field of concert films. Given the success of artists' concert films, if TikTok proposes 60-minute videos, it could attract artists to broadcast their concert films and even compete with platforms such as Disney+.
#3. Global music forecast up to 2031
MiDiA Research unveils its 2024 edition of the global music forecast. They present their key figures, trends, and drivers of MIDiA's music forecasting model. In particular, the numbers show forecasts for understanding how the global music market will evolve throughout the years up to 2031, with growth in streaming users slowing in the West, and revenue increasing thanks to higher prices and expansion in emerging markets.
You'll be able to access an analysis of the factors influencing the music market, the size of the recorded music market from 2008 to 2031, by revenue type, market shares by revenue type to 2031, and much more...
#4. Sony raises their voices on copyright
Sony Music has reminded tech companies not to use its recordings, compositions, and lyrics to train, develop, or market AI systems, according to a statement released on 16 May. Firstly, the major has contacted hundreds of companies developing generative AI technologies and streaming services directly to reinforce this message. It aims to make it clear that the unauthorized use of its content to train AI systems deprives its artists and companies of appropriate compensation, thereby undermining the normal exploitation of these works.
However, not everything went according to plan, as Suno raised 125 million euros, which is the perfect counter-example. The startup probably used copyrights without the labels' consent, which will have consequences for artists' and labels' remuneration, as well as for the MusicTech market.
Despite these concerns, the Major is engaged in discussions with start-ups and established players to develop new products and tools, while inviting AI companies to collaborate to ensure that the rights of artists and the music industry are respected.
#5. Apple fights back against $1.95 billion fine
News on the Apple case! The brand has lodged an appeal with the European Court of First Instance against a $1.95 billion fine imposed by the EU regarding unfair competition in the music streaming sector, notably against Spotify. The fine requires Apple to allow music streaming applications to inform users of cheaper offers outside the App Store. Five years earlier, Spotify filed a complaint claiming that it had to raise its prices because of the fees imposed by Apple.
And that's not all, as Apple is facing several complaints totaling billions of dollars. These include an antitrust complaint filed by the Department of Justice and 15 states, accusing Apple of monopolizing the smartphone market. The Justice Department has seven days to respond, and we'll soon know whether the complaint will be upheld or withdrawn.
