Warner Music(US:WMG) Xin Lang Cai Jing·2026-02-18 21:22Core Viewpoint - Warner Music has entered into licensing agreements with AI music platforms Suno and Udio, set to be implemented in 2026, indicating a strategic shift towards AI-driven music creation and distribution [1] Group 1: Licensing Agreements - Suno plans to launch a new generation AI model trained on licensed data in 2026, while retiring its existing model [1] - Suno will acquire Warner's concert information service platform Songkick and operate it independently [1] - Udio is set to launch a generative AI music creation service platform in 2026, aimed at developing compliant AI-assisted creative tools [1] Group 2: Cost Management and Investment Strategy - The company announced a new round of layoffs and cost-cutting measures in 2025, targeting savings of approximately $300 million [1] - The saved funds will be reinvested into A&R (Artist and Repertoire) and acquisition activities to optimize the long-term business structure [1] - These adjustments may continue to impact operational direction into 2026 [1]