June 10, (THEWILL) — Warner Music Group has acquired AI startup, Sureel AI, to help manage how creative works are used in artificial intelligence systems, while protecting creators from unauthorised use of their content.
The financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Founded in 2022, Sureel AI develops tools that identify when music, voices, or other creative works are used by AI systems. Its technology is designed to give artists and rights holders visibility into how their work is being used and to support fair compensation where applicable.
The company will continue to operate as a standalone business, serving both the wider music industry and AI developers, but under Warner Music Group’s ownership.
Warner Music Group CEO, Robert Kyncl, said the move will help protect artists’ work while also supporting new opportunities created by artificial intelligence in music.
Sureel AI founder, Tamay Aykut, said the goal is to ensure creators understand how their work is used by AI and are treated fairly.
The acquisition is part of Warner Music Group’s wider move into artificial intelligence. The company has recently signed deals with AI music platforms and invested in tools that help manage and distribute music rights.
The deal, announced on June 10, 2026, comes amid growing concern across the creative industry, including music and film, over how artificial intelligence is being used and its potential impact on artists’ rights and livelihoods.
Evi Ben Ezaga writes on entertainment, culture, and trending stories.
