Meta and Universal Music Group (UMG) have enhanced their existing licensing agreement, aimed at increasing the ways UMG’s music can be utilised across Meta’s platforms.
This updated deal, announced today, extends UMG’s music rights to include WhatsApp for the first time, alongside Facebook, Instagram, Messenger, Horizon, and Threads.
The new agreement between Meta and Universal Music Group builds on the partnership that began in 2017, which was a landmark for music licensing across social media. The updated deal also introduces measures to tackle unauthorised AI-generated content.
This development comes in response to growing issues about AI systems using music without proper consent from the original creators. Both companies have pledged to work together to address these issues and ensure fair compensation for artists and songwriters.
Meta’s VP of Music and Content Business Development, Tamara Hrivnak, commented on the importance of music in connecting people across Meta’s apps. Michael Nash, chief digital officer at UMG, emphasised the protection of artistic rights and addressing the challenges caused by AI technologies.
This agreement arrives in the wake of recent issues between UMG and other platforms over music rights and AI usage. Earlier in the year, UMG had a dispute with TikTok regarding the use of its music catalogue, which was temporarily removed from the app. A resolution was reached in May, allowing UMG’s music to return to TikTok.
The partnership also follows legal actions by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), which represents UMG, against AI music startups accused of using copyrighted material without authorisation. Meta and UMG’s enhanced collaboration aims to ensure ethical use of music and AI’s integration.
The inclusion of WhatsApp and Threads in this new agreement provides UMG’s artists and songwriters with new avenues for engagement and monetisation across Meta’s diverse suite of platforms.
