YouTube introduces AI tool to replace copyrighted music in videos

YouTube has added a new feature that lets creators generate artificial intelligence (AI) instrumental tracks to replace copyrighted audio in their videos. The tool aims to resolve Content ID claims without forcing creators to delete or edit content.

The update was announced on May 1 through YouTube’s Creator Insider channel. It adds a “Create” button to the existing “Replace Song” tool in YouTube Studio on desktop. When selected, the tool generates four royalty-free instrumental tracks that creators can use to replace flagged audio.

Rene Ritchie of Creator Insider explained that the feature allows creators to address copyright claims directly and keep their videos on the platform. This may also help restore monetisation for affected videos. The tool is currently available only to YouTube Studio users in the United States on desktop.

YouTube plans a global rollout and mobile support later this year. The new function differs from the Music Assistant tool launched in April 2024. Music Assistant lets YouTube Partner Programme members create copyright-free instrumental tracks using text prompts.

Creators describe the desired music by specifying mood, instruments, and video context. That tool uses Google DeepMind’s Lyria model.In contrast, the updated Replace Song tool targets videos that have already received Content ID claims. It generates replacement tracks as part of the claims resolution process.

YouTube has not disclosed which AI model powers the new instrumental generation feature. It is not confirmed whether it uses the same Lyria technology behind Music Assistant and other tools.The development forms part of YouTube’s wider effort to integrate AI-generated music into creator tools.

In February, Google released Lyria 3, its most advanced AI music model, in the Gemini app. It is also integrated into the Dream Track tool for YouTube Shorts creators. In September last year, YouTube introduced a Speech to Song feature. This converts dialogue from existing videos into musical soundtracks using Lyria 2.

The move addresses a common problem for creators who use background music in videos. Copyright claims often block monetisation or lead to content removal. By offering quick AI replacements, YouTube seeks to reduce friction in the claims process while maintaining rights holder protections through royalty-free alternatives.

The feature is expected to appeal particularly to smaller creators who lack resources to license music or re-edit videos frequently. As AI music tools improve, YouTube continues to expand options that balance creator needs with copyright enforcement.