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iHeartRadio, through parent company iHeartMedia, has launched the “Guaranteed Human” initiative banning AI-generated songs, AI DJs, AI callers, and digital avatars from all its radio stations and podcasts.
The move was outlined in an internal memo from chief programming officer Tom Poleman, who said the goal is to protect the “authentic human connection” that audiences still prefer over algorithm-driven content. As part of the policy, on-air hosts will now also declare “Guaranteed Human” during their hourly station IDs.
In a letter to iHeart staff dated November 21 and obtained by music news and records platform Billboard, Poleman promised that iHeart does not and will not “use AI-generated personalities” or play tracks featuring “synthetic vocalists pretending to be human.” The pledge also extends to podcasting, where only “Guaranteed Human” shows will move forward under the new framework.
The announcement comes as AI-generated music continues to shake up the entertainment world, sparking tension between innovation and authenticity.