Sony Music Group announced a partnership with Spotify and other major music companies in October 2025 to develop responsible AI music products designed to benefit artists and songwriters, with Sony Music's participation contingent on direct licensing agreements in advance of product launches.

The partnership, announced October 16, 2025, involves Sony Music Group alongside Universal Music Group, Warner Music Group, Merlin, and Believe. Spotify stated it was building a generative AI research lab and product team to develop the products, with a commitment that artists and rights holders will choose whether and how to participate. As of the announcement date, no specific AI products had been launched; the partnership represents a framework agreement and announced development intent. Sony Music Group Chairman Rob Stringer described the arrangement as confirmation that 'direct licensing in advance of launching new products is the only appropriate way to build them.'