TIDAL will stop paying for fully AI-made songs starting July 15

In short: TIDAL is changing its rules so fully AI-generated music can be streamed but cannot make money on the platform.

What happened

TIDAL published a new AI policy that blocks monetization for music it considers 100% AI-generated. Monetization is the way a track earns money through royalties (payments when people listen) and other sales features.

The company says it will label these tracks with an “AI” badge so listeners can see what they are about to play. TIDAL also says these tracks will not be able to collect royalties or use its direct-to-fan sales tools.

In addition, TIDAL says it will use automated tools to remove AI-made music that tries to impersonate a real artist or group. That is like trying to pass off a fake signature as a real one.

Tony Gervino, TIDAL’s EVP and editor-in-chief, wrote that the goal is to protect “organic creativity,” meaning music made by human artists. He also said the policy is not meant to be anti-technology, and that it can change over time. The new rules take effect on July 15, 2026.

Why it matters

AI-made tracks have been flooding music services, and some listeners and artists say they do not want to be pushed toward songs made entirely by software. By cutting off payments, TIDAL is testing whether removing the financial reward will slow down uploads of fully AI-made music, while still giving listeners clear labels to help them choose what to hear.

Source: TechCrunch AI