Content ID on YouTube and SoundCloud: What is it, and how does it work?

Content ID is an automated tool used by platforms like YouTube and SoundCloud to identify, protect, and manage copyright for musical content. Here’s an overview of how it works and how to use it with Wiseband.

What is Content ID?

Content ID is a system that scans videos or audio tracks uploaded to platforms like YouTube and SoundCloud to detect the use of copyrighted material.

• On YouTube, Content ID compares uploaded videos to tracks stored in its database. If a match is found, automatic actions (monetization, blocking, or tracking) are triggered.
• On SoundCloud, the system also detects tracks that match copyrighted music, allowing artists or rights holders to manage their content.

How does Content ID work with Wiseband?

Wiseband allows you to register your music in the Content ID system to protect your rights. Here’s how it works:

1. Registering your music:

   • When distributing your tracks with Wiseband, you can choose to enable Content ID on YouTube, SoundCloud, or both platforms.

2. Automatic analysis:

   • Once your music is registered, it is added to the Content ID database.
   • Platforms continuously scan their content to detect matches with your tracks.

3. Detection and actions:

   • If your music is used by a third party without permission, Content ID can:
     • Monetize the video/audio in your favor.
     • Track the performance (statistics and visibility).
     • Block the content, depending on your preferences.

Why use Content ID with Wiseband?

• Protect your rights: Ensure your music is not used without your authorization.
• Monetization: Earn revenue whenever your music is used in videos or tracks.
• Track usage: Monitor the videos or tracks using your music and analyze their impact.

What to know before activating Content ID

1. Exclusive ownership: You must be the sole owner of the rights to the music you register. If your track contains samples, covers, or other copyrighted elements, it may be rejected by Content ID.
2. Processing time: Once your music is submitted, it may take a few days to be registered in YouTube and SoundCloud’s systems.
3. Claimed by Wiseband: When Content ID is activated, your content will automatically be claimed by Wiseband for protection and monetization. This means that you cannot monetize your content directly, but you will receive your earnings through your Wiseband royalties.
4. Whitelist option: If you wish to monetize your content yourself while benefiting from Content ID’s copyright protection, you can request to whitelist your YouTube or SoundCloud channel. This excludes your channel from claims while still protecting your rights on other videos or tracks.

How to activate Content ID via Wiseband

1. Log in to your Wiseband account.
2. During the distribution process, select the Content ID on YouTube and SoundCloud option.
3. Follow the steps to complete your distribution.

Once activated, you will be notified of any detections made by Content ID and can track the revenue generated directly from your Wiseband account.

If you have any questions or specific requests (such as whitelisting your channel), feel free to contact our team via Wiseband support.