Background
In January 2026 Deezer announced an AI detection tool that automatically tags fully AI‑generated music, removes it from algorithmic and editorial recommendations, and excludes it from the royalty pool.
The service now receives about 60,000 AI tracks per day—13.4 million detected songs in total—with 85 % of streams from these tracks classified as fraudulent.
How the Tool Works
Deezer claims the system can recognise tracks produced by major generative models such as Suno and Udio.
- Automatic tagging of AI‑generated content.
- Exclusion from recommendation engines.
- Demonetisation and removal from royalty calculations.
The company says pricing varies per deal and interest from industry bodies like SACEM is already high.
Impact on the Industry
The tool addresses recent fraud cases, including a 2024 DOJ prosecution of a North Carolina musician who used bots to stream AI songs billions of times, stealing over $10 million in royalties.
Other platforms have responded differently:
- Bandcamp has banned AI‑generated music outright.
- Spotify updated its policy to require disclosure of AI use and to prohibit unauthorized voice clones.
- Universal Music Group and Warner Music Group have signed licensing deals with AI startups Suno and Udio.
Comparison with Competing Platforms
While Deezer actively removes and demonetises AI tracks, major labels are licensing AI models, and Spotify focuses on policy enforcement rather than detection.
Future Outlook
Deezer hopes its detection tool will become a model for other streaming services, encouraging a shift toward protecting human creators and curbing streaming fraud.