Music-hosting site SoundCloud has struck up a deal with Zefr to help it combat copyright infringement.
The new partnership will make it easier for music labels to flag up illegally-uploaded content and submit takedown requests.
However, since SoundCloud already has its own system for identifying copyrighted content, it’s likely that music labels will now also be able to monetise their songs, even if they’ve been illegally uploaded.
YouTube already uses Zefr in this manner, enabling copyright owners to re-claim their music and start running ads on it.
“We are excited to use our technology and expertise to help make SoundCloud a go-to platform for content creators and advertisers,” said Zach James, the co-founder of Zefr.
It’s good news all round, since SoundCloud, which launched in 2008 and first began serving ads last year, will make a bit of cash at the same time.
“SoundCloud is continuing its evolution as a mature platform for labels and advertisers,” said Alexander Ljung, the co-founder and CEO of SoundCloud. “Working with Zefr, SoundCloud is taking another step to becoming the powerhouse player in the digital audio business.”
Related: Tidal relaunch is just an ego-driven cash grab
The streaming model has been under heavy scrutiny of late, following the relaunch of Tidal. The lossless CD-quality streaming service is looking to go head-to head with rivals like SoundCloud and Spotify, all while charging consumers significantly higher fees.
Backed by the likes of Jay Z, Madonna and Rihanna, it’s the first artist-owned platform of its kind, and wants to bring in a new era for the music industry from a business and creative standpoint.
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Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.