TikTok AI Song Test Brings Auto-Generated Music to the App
TikTok is reportedly testing a new feature called ‘AI Song’ that allows users to create custom tracks using artificial intelligence (AI) technology. The feature was discovered by observant Redditors who shared their findings online. According to the on-screen description, the AI Song feature is powered by a large language model (LLM) called Bloom. This LLM has an impressive 176 billion parameters and can generate text in 46 natural languages, which is crucial considering TikTok’s global userbase.
The AI Song feature allows select TikTok users to create music for their video clips simply by inputting text prompts. It offers customization flexibility and cost advantages, although its long-term impact on actual musicians remains a concern. While it is unclear how many users currently have access to the feature and when it will be rolled out more broadly, it seems likely that the AI Song expansion will happen in the near future.
TikTok has been exploring AI technology for some time now, with a subsidiary of its parent company ByteDance releasing an AI music creation tool called Ripple last year. This standalone service enables users to generate lyrics and vocals, as well as extract components from audio uploads. It is reasonable to assume that Ripple will play a significant role in TikTok’s AI plans and will likely integrate with the platform’s short-form videos or TikTok Music in the future.
While TikTok seems open to AI technology in certain areas, the platform recently announced its commitment to protecting election integrity in 2024. As part of this effort, TikTok aims to address misleading AI-generated content in the political sphere. The head of USDS trust and safety, Suzy Loftus, stated that TikTok will continue to block manipulated content, including AI-generated content of public figures endorsing political views. Additionally, TikTok creators will be required to label any realistic AI-generated content. These measures come in response to concerns about misinformation, harmful content, and the misuse of children’s data on the platform.
It is important to consider both the advantages and potential risks associated with AI technology in the music industry. While it allows for creativity and customization, its long-term impact on musicians and the authenticity of their work raises important questions. TikTok’s foray into AI music reflects the growing trend of artificial intelligence’s integration into various aspects of our daily lives. As the testing of the AI Song feature continues, it remains to be seen how it will shape the future of music creation on the popular social media platform.
