Sam Duboff , Spotify’s global head of artists, marketing and policy, recently visited Australia to discuss the streaming platform’s plans for AI music tools and artist protections. His message lined up with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese ’s push for copyright rules that require tech companies to get permission before using protected music to train AI. Australia has positioned itself as an early mover on digital policy, from its under 16 social media restrictions to its planned Office of AI. Duboff said the government’s approach is closely aligned with Spotify’s stated priorities: respect copyright, preserve artists’ control and make sure new technology benefits existing rights holders. Can AI Work Without Cutting Artists Out? Spotify’s AI strategy comes with a clear argument from Duboff: music technology should expand artist careers rather than treat musicians as replaceable inputs. Duboff said Spotify is developing AI music products with industry partners, with the goal of creating licensed tools that work within the existing music ecosystem. That position reflects Spotify’s origin story as a legal alternative to piracy, according to Duboff. The company helped move listeners toward paid streaming by building a licensed music service, and Spotify now sees a similar opening to bring emerging AI products into a framework where artists, copyright owners and fans are not left fighting over the scraps.