Warner Music Group (NASDAQ: WMG) and Udio today announced a landmark agreement that resolves the companies’ copyright infringement litigation and establishes a clear framework for the development of Udio’s licensed AI music creation service, set to launch in 2026.
Through this collaboration, Udio will develop a next-generation music creation, listening, and discovery platform powered by generative AI models trained on licensed and authorized music. The agreement—which spans WMG’s recorded music and music publishing businesses—creates new revenue streams for artists and songwriters, while ensuring their work remains protected.
“Collaborating with WMG marks a significant milestone in our mission to redefine how AI and the music industry evolve together,” said Andrew Sanchez, Co-Founder and CEO of Udio. “This partnership is a crucial step towards realizing a future in which technology amplifies creativity and unlocks new opportunities for artists and songwriters. Our new platform will enable experiences where fans can create alongside their favorite artists and make extraordinary music in an environment that offers artists control and connection. We’re absolutely thrilled to be working with WMG in creating this new future.”
Robert Kyncl, CEO, WMG said: “We’re unwaveringly committed to the protection of the rights of our artists and songwriters, and Udio has taken meaningful steps to ensure that the music on its service will be authorized and licensed. This collaboration aligns with our broader efforts to responsibly unlock AI’s potential – fueling new creative and commercial possibilities while continuing to deliver innovative experiences for fans.”
Udio’s reimagined subscription service will introduce a suite of creative experiences that enable users to make remixes, covers, and new songs using the voices of artists and compositions of songwriters who choose to participate, while ensuring artists and songwriters are credited and paid. Ahead of the launch, Udio will also be rolling out expanded protections and other measures designed to safeguard the rights of artists and songwriters.
This new offering represents a significant evolution for Udio, shifting the company’s focus to a platform built in collaboration with artists and songwriters. To support a smooth transition, Udio will continue providing access to its current, closed-system as Udio transitions into serving fully-licensed applications in 2026.
