Industry Briefing
A single destination for timely, editor-curated robotics news from around the world.
How Musicians Can Get Paid for Training AI
In response to the challenges posed by generative AI on the music industry, startups like Sureel and SoundVerse are developing innovative solutions to ensure musicians are compensated fairly for their work. Following Warner Music Group's acquisition of Sureel, the company has partnered with the Swedish copyright agency STIM to create a system that tracks how music is used in AI training. This software allows creators to specify the terms of use for their music, ensuring they receive royalties based on its influence in AI-generated outputs. The ongoing debate centers on how to accurately attribute the contributions of various training data to the outputs produced by AI systems. SoundVerse advocates for a model that rewards artists continuously throughout the AI lifecycle, rather than through one-time payments. This approach aims to maintain the economic incentives that drive creativity while addressing concerns about AI's potential to undermine cultural vibrancy and artist livelihoods. As copyright lawsuits give way to negotiated agreements between major music labels and AI companies, there is a growing opportunity to establish fair compensation practices. Experts emphasize the need for transparent and equitable attribution systems that reflect the complex relationship between training data and AI outputs. Ultimately, the success of these initiatives may depend on collaboration across disciplines, including musicology, law, and economics, to create policies that support a sustainable creative sector in the age of AI.
Copyright Training-data Generative-ai Music
'For All Mankind' star Wrenn Schmidt on her character's journey from NASA's mission control to the slammer (interview)
A recent report highlights the transformative experiences of inmates in correctional facilities, particularly focusing on one individual who has developed a newfound appreciation for Dolly Parton's music. The report suggests that the extended time spent in jail has allowed her to explore various forms of entertainment and self-reflection, leading to significant personal growth. This change is emblematic of how incarceration can provide individuals with the opportunity to engage with different cultural influences and reassess their lives. The insights were shared in a discussion about the broader implications of prison life on personal development, emphasizing the potential for rehabilitation through exposure to diverse experiences.
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New piano-playing robotic hand learns notes after just two minutes of practice
A team of researchers has introduced an innovative robotic system known as the “Musician Hand,” capable of listening to and interpreting music in real-time. This groundbreaking technology was revealed during a recent conference focused on advancements in robotics and artificial intelligence. The unveiling took place in October 2023, showcasing the system's ability to analyze musical compositions and respond with precise movements that mimic human musicians. The motivation behind developing the “Musician Hand” stems from a desire to enhance the interaction between humans and machines in creative fields, particularly in music. By integrating advanced auditory processing capabilities, the robotic hand can not only play instruments but also adapt its performance based on the nuances of the music it hears. This innovation aims to bridge the gap between technology and artistry, providing new opportunities for collaboration between musicians and robots. The researchers demonstrated the system's functionality by having it perform alongside live musicians, illustrating its potential to revolutionize music education and performance. The “Musician Hand” represents a significant step forward in the field of robotics, highlighting the increasing role of artificial intelligence in creative endeavors. As the technology continues to evolve, it may pave the way for more sophisticated applications in various artistic domains, fostering a deeper connection between human creativity and robotic assistance.
Robot learns to play music by ear, opening new possibilities in medicine and therapy
Researchers at the USC Viterbi School of Engineering have unveiled an innovative robotic hand capable of learning and reproducing melodies. This advanced technology can listen to a tune just once and, after a brief two-minute period of self-directed practice on a keyboard, accurately play it back without the need for sheet music or preprogrammed instructions. The development highlights significant progress in the field of robotics and artificial intelligence, showcasing the potential for machines to learn and adapt in ways similar to humans. This breakthrough could pave the way for more sophisticated applications in music and other areas requiring fine motor skills and auditory recognition.
Robotics
‘World-first’ robot theme park with humanoid K-pop dancers for wooing audience
Galaxy Corporation, a leading entertainment technology firm known for managing prominent artists including G-Dragon, has officially launched its new headquarters in Seoul. The opening ceremony took place on October 15, 2023, and was attended by industry leaders, media representatives, and fans. This strategic move aims to enhance the company’s operations and expand its influence in the entertainment sector, particularly in music and digital content. The new facility is designed to foster creativity and innovation, providing state-of-the-art resources for artists and production teams. By establishing a central hub in Seoul, Galaxy Corporation seeks to strengthen its position in the competitive entertainment landscape and better support its roster of talent. The decision to open this headquarters reflects the company’s commitment to advancing the industry through cutting-edge technology and collaborative opportunities. In addition to serving as a workspace, the headquarters will host various events and initiatives aimed at engaging fans and promoting new projects. Galaxy Corporation's leadership expressed optimism about the potential for growth and the ability to create more impactful experiences for both artists and audiences.
Tencent Music reports Q1 2026 revenue up 7.3% as non-membership music services rise 28%
Tencent Music Entertainment Group announced its unaudited financial results for the first quarter of 2026, revealing a revenue of RMB 7.90 billion (approximately $1.15 billion), marking a 7.3% increase compared to the same period last year. The company reported a non-IFRS net profit attributable to equity holders of RMB 2.27 billion ($330 million), reflecting a 7.0% rise. The growth in revenue was largely driven by the music-related services sector, which saw a 12.2% increase to RMB 6.51 billion ($944 million). Within this segment, membership services contributed significantly, generating RMB 4.57 billion, a 6.6% increase year-over-year. This positive financial performance underscores Tencent Music's continued expansion and resilience in the competitive digital music landscape.
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AMC to screen live concerts through Arena One partnership
AMC Theatres is set to enhance its offerings by programming live concert screenings at over 300 locations across 89 markets in the United States. This initiative aims to provide fans with a unique viewing experience, allowing them to enjoy live performances from the comfort of their local theaters. Tickets for these events will be priced between $40 and $75, making it accessible for a wide audience. The rollout is expected to attract both music enthusiasts and cinema-goers, as AMC seeks to diversify its entertainment options and capitalize on the growing demand for live event experiences in a post-pandemic landscape.
Wearable robots improve coordination between pairs of violin players
In various collaborative environments, individuals often need to synchronize their actions, a phenomenon prominently observed in musical performances. This coordination is essential when multiple musicians play together, as it enhances the overall harmony and effectiveness of the performance. The ability to align movements and timing not only improves the quality of the music but also fosters a deeper connection among the performers. This practice underscores the importance of teamwork and communication in achieving a unified artistic expression.
Robotics
Tencent Music posts higher 2025 profit as online music revenue expands
Tencent Music Entertainment Group announced its financial results for 2025, revealing a revenue of RMB 32.9 billion ($4.71 billion), marking a 15.8% increase compared to the previous year. The company's net profit attributable to equity holders surged by 66.4% to reach RMB 11.06 billion ($1.58 billion). Additionally, the non-IFRS net profit saw a 25% rise, amounting to RMB 9.59 billion ($1.37 billion). A significant contributor to this growth was the revenue from online music services, which climbed by 22.9% to RMB 26.73 billion. This robust performance highlights Tencent Music's successful strategies in expanding its online music offerings and capitalizing on the growing demand for digital music services in an increasingly competitive market.
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ROKAE Embodied Intelligent Robots Take the Stage at the Shandong Robot Spring Festival Gala
On New Year's Eve, over 50 ROKAE robots took center stage at the Shandong Robot Spring Festival Gala, showcasing a unique blend of robotics, music, and traditional art. This live event highlighted the evolving capabilities of embodied intelligent robots, demonstrating their ability to move, interact, and create in harmony with human performers. The gala not only entertained attendees but also provided a glimpse into the future of robotic integration in cultural expressions, marking a significant step in the advancement of robotics technology.
Translating music into light and motion with robots
Researchers at the University of Waterloo have developed an innovative system that enables collaboration between humans and groups of robots to create artistic works inspired by music. This groundbreaking technology features multiple wheeled robots, each approximately the size of a soccer ball, which leave trails of colored light as they move. The project aims to explore the intersection of technology and creativity, allowing participants to engage in a unique artistic experience. By integrating music into the creative process, the system encourages users to express themselves through art in a novel way. The initiative highlights the potential for robotics to enhance collaborative art-making, fostering a deeper connection between technology and human creativity.
Tencent Music posts solid Q1 as online subscriptions offset social decline
Tencent Music Entertainment Group (TME), the music streaming division of Tencent, announced its financial results for the first quarter of 2025, revealing a revenue of RMB 7.36 billion (approximately $1.01 billion). This figure marks an 8.7% increase compared to the same period last year, primarily fueled by a significant rise in online music subscriptions. Revenue from music services alone saw a nearly 16% growth, reaching RMB 5.8 billion (around $800 million). However, the company experienced a decline in revenue from its social entertainment segment, indicating a mixed performance across its business lines. The results reflect TME's ongoing efforts to expand its music subscription base amidst a competitive streaming landscape.
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TME reports strong subscription growth in Q3, but faces decline in monthly active users
Tencent Music Entertainment (TME), the online music streaming platform operated by Tencent, announced a significant increase in paid subscribers during the third quarter of 2024. Despite this positive development, the company experienced a decline in monthly active users across its music and social entertainment divisions. TME's revenue from its online music services grew by 20.4% compared to the previous year, totaling RMB 5.48 billion (approximately $800 million). This growth in subscriber numbers highlights TME's ability to attract paying customers, even as it faces challenges in maintaining user engagement across its broader platform. The contrasting trends of rising revenue and falling active users suggest a shift in user behavior, prompting TME to reassess its strategies to enhance user retention and engagement in the competitive streaming market.
News FeedRobotics needs a service framework.
RSF defines a common language for robot service capability, lifecycle operations, certification pathways, and service-provider networks.
