Music streaming service TIDAL has joined Spotify, Apple Music and others to crack down on fully AI-generated tracks. The company’s new policy prevents such music from earning money on its platform and removes it from recommendations and editorial playlists.

In an announcement, Tony Gervino, TIDAL EVP and Editor-in-Chief, clarified that the move is aimed at protecting organic creativity rather than stifling technological advancement. Full AI-generated music will be flagged with an ‘AI’ badge, making it clear to listeners which tracks are fully automated compositions.

The policy reflects a broader trend in the streaming industry as services try to navigate the growing number of AI-generated tracks filling their platforms. Deezer, for instance, has taken a stricter approach, actively removing AI tracks from recommendations and editorial playlists, and even offering its own AI detection technology to rivals.

However, TIDAL's policy could be seen as an interesting test to see if demonetization can slow the flood of AI-generated music. Gervino notes that regardless of what critics say, ‘AI’s takeover of the music industry (and your recommendations) isn’t inevitable if we take even greater steps now to monitor and control it.’

The new policy is a ‘living document,’ meaning TIDAL retains the flexibility to adapt as the use of AI in music continues to evolve.