Sony unveils AI tool aimed at detecting use of copyrighted works

Developed by Sony’s AI division, the technology is said to function across multiple media formats, including music, film and video games. The tool is intended to determine whether and to what extent copyrighted material has contributed to machine-generated outputs.

The development is likely to draw particular attention from the music industry, where AI-generated audio continues to proliferate. Sony’s music arm, Sony Music, is currently pursuing legal action against AI music platforms Udio and Suno over alleged copyright infringement.

According to the Nikkei report, the new technology can calculate the percentage contribution of human-created works within AI-generated content. If an AI developer agrees to cooperate, the system bases its calculations on information drawn directly from the training data. In cases where a developer does not cooperate, the tool instead estimates “the original work by comparing AI-generated music with existing music,” the report said.

By focusing on quantified contribution levels, the technology could, in theory, support clearer mechanisms for determining derivative works and potential compensation for rights holders. However, its effectiveness is likely to depend on industry adoption and the willingness of AI developers to engage with the system.

Sony’s move comes amid a broader industry push to improve transparency around the use of copyrighted materials in AI models. Sony Music holds a stake in Vermillio, which is developing percentage-based detection tools with a focus on video content. Sony Music and Universal Music have also partnered with SoundPatrol, which claims its “Neural Fingerprinting” technology can detect copyrighted works across covers, remixes and other adaptations.

Universal Music is additionally working with ProRata.ai, while digital streaming services, including Deezer, are developing proprietary AI detection technologies.

Despite the growing number of tools entering the market, questions remain about their practical impact, particularly in regions with weaker intellectual property enforcement. At the same time, several generative AI companies maintain that their models are trained exclusively on authorised datasets. Platforms such as Boomy and ElevenLabs continue to expand their offerings, while Klay Vision has yet to launch, nearly two years after announcing a collaboration with Universal Music.

As AI-generated content continues to scale rapidly, the effectiveness and adoption of detection technologies are expected to play a central role in shaping future copyright enforcement and licensing frameworks.