Spotify starts verifying non-AI artists, adds more details about all artists

Spotify has started to verify non-AI artists, in a bid to increase "authenticity and trust for the artists behind the music". It's also a surefire way to imply that any artist who isn't verified is most likely AI.

The Verified by Spotify badge will signify that the artist in question has consistent listener activity and engagement over time, a good standing with Spotify's platform policies, and "an identifiable artist presence both on and off-platform, like concert dates, merch, and linked social accounts".

It goes without saying, but AI-generated or AI-persona artists are not eligible for verification. At least for now. Spotify says "the concept of artist authenticity is complex and quickly evolving" and the company will continue to develop its approach over time.

The new badge will start appearing on artist profiles and next to artist names in search "over the coming weeks". There will be "Verified by Spotify" text and a light green checkmark icon. Spotify says 99% of the artists people actively search for will be verified at launch. It's prioritizing artists "with active fan interest, or who have made important contributions to music culture and history, rather than functional music creators and content farms whose content is primarily designed for passive or background listening".

Spotify is also introducing a new beta section on all artist profiles that highlights details like career milestones, release activity, and touring activity. This will be available in the About section on mobile across artist profiles "in the coming weeks", and you'll also see this when you tap on the Verified by Spotify banner.