The new labels will help listeners distinguish AI-generated tracks from human-created music, with the disclosure system also set to expand to the main YouTube app.
YouTube Music has introduced a new labelling system to identify songs created using generative artificial intelligence, as streaming platforms respond to the increasing volume of AI-generated music available to listeners.
Announced on October 14, 2026, the feature will display AI disclosure labels directly on the music player's interface, allowing users to identify tracks in which generative AI has played a significant role in production.
According to YouTube, the labels will primarily apply to songs created using generative AI models, including those where the technology has been used to produce musical compositions and vocals.
Listeners will be able to tap the label to access additional information about how AI was involved in creating a particular track. The company also plans to extend the disclosure system to the main YouTube application.
The Google-owned platform said it is working with music industry partners and using its own detection tools to identify AI-generated recordings.
Under its disclosure framework, music partners can classify uploaded tracks into three categories: Fully Gen AI, Partly Gen AI and No Gen AI.
The Fully Gen AI designation applies to recordings generated entirely through artificial intelligence, while Partly Gen AI covers music combining AI-generated elements with human performances or contributions.
The No Gen AI category includes recordings that do not contain generative AI-created content. Songs using conventional audio processing technologies, including pitch-correction tools such as Auto-Tune, can also fall under this classification.
The initiative comes as music streaming companies introduce different measures to address the growing presence of AI-generated recordings.
Apple Music is preparing to introduce AI Transparency Tags, while Spotify has implemented AI-related labelling and music spam detection measures.
French streaming platform Deezer has adopted a different approach, identifying AI-generated tracks and excluding them from algorithmic recommendations and editorial playlists.
In July, Deezer reported receiving nearly 90,000 fully AI-generated tracks daily. The company has also introduced measures to prevent fraudulent streams from generating royalty payments and is developing options to let listeners filter AI-generated music.
Meanwhile, TIDAL identifies fully AI-generated recordings and provides listeners with controls to exclude them from their listening experience.
Unlike platforms that restrict certain AI-generated recordings, YouTube's current approach focuses on disclosure rather than automatically limiting distribution or monetisation.
The company has indicated that the use of AI in music production does not, by itself, make a recording ineligible for monetisation.
YouTube has also experimented with generative AI music tools, including Dream Track, which allows selected creators to produce music using AI-generated versions of participating artists' voices.
The new labelling system introduces an additional disclosure mechanism as streaming services develop policies addressing AI-generated content, music distribution and listener transparency.
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