New York, November 27, 2025
Warner Music Group has settled copyright lawsuits against AI music startups Udio and Suno, and entered into new licensing agreements that will enable joint ventures launching AI-powered music platforms in 2026. The move aims to protect artists’ rights while fostering innovation in AI music creation.
Settlement Details and Licensing Agreements
Warner Music Group (WMG) dropped its copyright lawsuits against Udio and Suno, which had accused the startups of using Warner’s copyrighted catalog to train their AI models without authorization. Instead, Warner signed licensing deals with both companies, officially permitting the use of its music catalog for AI training and creation purposes.
These agreements represent a strategic shift in Warner’s approach, moving from litigation to collaboration with AI music developers. The partnerships authorize the start-ups to leverage Warner’s extensive catalog and artist voices to develop new AI-assisted music experiences.
New AI-Powered Platforms and Features
The licensing agreements will lead to the launch of AI-driven music platforms in 2026. These platforms will allow users to generate original songs, remixes, and covers using the AI tools empowered by Warner’s catalog and artist performances. Importantly, artists and songwriters will have the option to opt in for their likenesses, voices, and compositions to be used. This ensures that creators are properly credited and compensated, safeguarding their intellectual property rights amidst the growing involvement of AI in music production.
These platforms are designed to create fresh revenue streams for artists and songwriters, integrating commercial opportunities alongside robust rights protections.
Statements from Leadership
Robert Kyncl, CEO of Warner Music Group, emphasized the company’s commitment to artist rights, stating, “We’re unwaveringly committed to the protection of the rights of our artists and songwriters, and Udio has taken meaningful steps to ensure that the music on its service will be authorized and licensed.”
Andrew Sanchez, CEO of Udio, framed the partnership as a milestone in technological creativity: “This partnership is a crucial step towards realizing a future in which technology amplifies creativity and unlocks new opportunities for artists and songwriters.”
Industry Impact and Broader Context
Warner’s settlements and licensing deals underscore a broader industry trend toward controlled collaboration with AI technology. Universal Music Group and Sony Music Entertainment are reportedly engaged in negotiations to license their catalogs to AI music companies as well. However, Sony remains in active litigation with Udio and Suno at this time.
Legal experts note that these settlements set a significant precedent for how major record labels can balance fostering AI innovation while enforcing copyright protections and artist compensation. This shift could redefine how the music industry engages with AI, moving away from adversarial stances to more integrated partnerships.
Looking Ahead
The new AI music platforms backed by Warner Music are scheduled to launch in 2026, with further details expected in the coming months. As licensing discussions echo across the major labels, the unfolding dynamic between AI startups and music rights holders will be closely observed by business leaders, policymakers, and creative stakeholders globally.
The Warner-led agreements mark a pivotal step in reshaping music creation and distribution for the AI era, charting a course that safeguards creators’ rights while harnessing new technological possibilities for the industry.