Universal Music Group and AI audio company ElevenLabs have struck a wide-ranging licensing agreement to launch a new AI-powered music platform built on UMG's artist catalogue. The platform will let fans remix and mash up tracks, create new interpretations of songs, and generate "personalised vocal experiences", with the companies also planning further joint AI audio products. The deal signals a shift in how major labels are engaging with AI music technology, moving towards direct collaboration and monetisation with licensed platforms rather than confrontation alone.

The announcement came a day after Suno unveiled its first label-backed AI models, developed with Warner Music Group, Believe and BMG, highlighting fast-moving industry momentum towards licensed AI music tools. Unlike UMG's existing tie-ups with AI firms such as Hook and Udio, the ElevenLabs partnership involves building an entirely new platform from scratch. ElevenLabs, which raised $500 million in a Series D round earlier this year at an $11 billion valuation, has already ventured into music with its "The Eleven Album" project, while UMG and Sony Music remain locked in litigation with Suno over alleged copyright infringement.