Udio, an AI-driven music platform, has announced that it will temporarily allow subscribers to download their existing songs in response to significant backlash over recent changes to its service following a licensing settlement with Universal Music Group (UMG). The announcement comes after many users expressed outrage and raised the possibility of legal action due to Udio’s decision to prevent paying subscribers from downloading their own music, including tracks created before the UMG agreement.
In a statement shared on Reddit, Udio revealed it would provide a 48-hour window for users to download their songs, starting on Monday (Nov. 3). Songs downloaded during this period will fall under the previous terms of service that were in place before the agreement with UMG. Udio’s CEO, Andrew Sanchez, expressed regret over the changes, saying, “Not going to mince words: we hate the fact we cannot offer downloads right now. We know the pain it causes to you, and we are sorry that we have had to do so.”
Sanchez explained that the initial ban on downloads was necessary for the company to forge partnerships with artists and songwriters while navigating the complexities of the digital music landscape. As for the ability to download songs during the upcoming window, Sanchez stated that Udio had “worked with our partners to help make this possible” but did not elaborate on the details, as UMG did not respond to a request for further information.
Users who download their songs during this timeframe will retain ownership of their creations, aligning with Udio’s policy that grants users rights to their music, including commercial usage permissions. However, for those on the free tier, the company requires attribution indicating that the song was created using Udio.
The settlement between UMG and Udio aims to resolve allegations that Udio unlawfully utilized copyrighted songs for AI training. As part of the agreement, Udio will compensate UMG and the two entities will collaborate on a new subscription-based AI service, which will involve payment of fees to UMG and its artists. This service will also provide opportunities for artists to opt into different features.
Despite the brief reprieve for downloads, users have expressed disappointment with Udio’s transition to a “walled garden” model, limiting their ability to take their music elsewhere. Many users voiced their feelings of betrayal on social media, with some suggesting legal action for what they see as a breach of trust after investing time and money into the platform.
As Udio prepares to implement these significant changes, it faces the challenge of regaining user trust and ensuring a smoother transition to the new service model next year. The temporary download window may provide some relief for users, but the long-term implications of the UMG settlement remain to be seen.