Spotify tests new tool to prevent AI impersonation on artist profiles

Spotify is beta testing a new feature called Artist Profile Protection to allow artists to review releases before they appear on their profiles. The streaming service stated that protecting artist identity is a top priority for 2026, introducing the tool to address a long-standing issue where music lands on the wrong artist pages across streaming services. Spotify described the feature as a first-of-its-kind solution to a problem that has affected streaming for years. Under the beta program, participating artists can review and approve or decline releases delivered to Spotify under their name. Only approved releases will appear on their profiles, contribute to their listening statistics, or be recommended to users.

The initiative comes amid heightened industry pressure over unauthorized content. Sony Music recently requested the removal of over 135,000 AI-generated songs that were impersonating its artists across streaming services. The rise of easy-to-produce AI tracks has worsened the issue of incorrect attribution, making it easier for bad actors or metadata errors to associate unauthorized music with established artists.

Spotify acknowledged that while open distribution has made it easier for independent artists to release music, it also creates opportunities for mistakes and bad actors. Tracks can end up on incorrect profiles due to metadata errors, naming confusion, or deliberate impersonation. Spotify noted that, “When that happens, it can impact your catalog, your stats, your Release Radar, and how fans discover your music.” Release Radar is Spotify’s personalized playlist feature that recommends new music to fans. The company added that one of the top requests from artists over the past year has been for more visibility before music appears under their name, noting how frustrating the issue can be for both artists and fans alike.

To resolve this, the new feature is accessible within the Spotify for Artists dashboard—the platform’s portal for creators—on desktop and mobile web. When activated, the tool sends an email notification to artists when music is delivered with their name attached, giving them the final say on whether to accept the release. The feature is designed for artists who have experienced repeated incorrect releases, have common names, or simply want more control over their profiles.

Why it matters

Spotify is introducing a new tool to combat the issue of AI-generated music being incorrectly attributed to real artists, a problem that has been exacerbated by the rise of easy-to-produce AI tracks. As streaming platforms grapple with automated content creation, giving artists gatekeeping power over their own profiles represents a shift toward active metadata verification in digital music distribution.