Google has expanded its generative AI capabilities with the launch of Lyria 3, a new AI music generation model now integrated into the Gemini platform. The tool allows users to create 30-second songs from text prompts, images, or videos, and began rolling out globally on , initially on desktop devices, with a mobile release planned for the coming days.
The introduction of Lyria 3 marks Google’s further investment in generative AI for creative applications, placing it in direct competition with other platforms offering AI-powered music creation tools. This move builds upon earlier experiments with AI music generation within Google’s ecosystem.
How Lyria 3 Generates Music
Lyria 3 simplifies music creation by automating the process of composing short tracks. Users provide a description of the desired musical theme, mood, or concept, and the model generates a complete song, including audio, lyrics, and accompanying cover art. No prior musical knowledge or input is required from the user.
The generated output consists of three key elements:
- A 30-second music track
- AI-generated lyrics based on the user’s prompt
- Cover art created using Google’s Nano Banana image generation tool
To illustrate the capabilities of Lyria 3, Google provided a sample rap song generated in the style of 50 Cent, demonstrating the model’s ability to emulate specific artists and genres. (An audio sample is available here.)
From Dream Track to Lyria 3: An Evolution of Google’s AI Music Efforts
Google initially introduced the Lyria model in and subsequently applied it to YouTube experiments, notably Dream Track. Dream Track allowed creators to generate short background music clips for YouTube Shorts. Lyria 3 represents a significant advancement over its predecessors.
According to Google, Lyria 3 offers several improvements over earlier versions, including:
- Automatic lyric generation
- Increased control over musical style and vocals
- More complex and realistic audio output
The company also confirmed that Dream Track will be upgraded to utilize the Lyria 3 model. While Google has not yet specified whether the upgrade will allow for the creation of tracks exceeding the current 30-second limit, the transition indicates a commitment to leveraging the enhanced capabilities of the new model across its platforms.
Multilingual Support and Global Accessibility
Lyria 3 currently supports multiple languages, including English, German, Spanish, French, Hindi, Japanese, Korean, and Portuguese, with plans to add further language support in the future. This broad language support aims to make the tool accessible to a global audience.
Addressing Copyright Concerns and Protecting Artists
Google has implemented safeguards within Lyria 3 designed to encourage original musical creation and avoid direct replication of existing copyrighted works. When a user references a specific musician or style in their prompt, the system generates music inspired by those characteristics, rather than attempting to reproduce identifiable songs. Filtering systems are in place to prevent outputs from closely resembling copyrighted material.
However, Google acknowledges that these safeguards are not foolproof and encourages users to report any potential copyright violations. The company has not disclosed whether licensed artist material was used in the training data for Lyria 3.
Implications for Creators and the Future of AI Music
The integration of Lyria 3 into Gemini democratizes music creation by enabling users to generate short audio tracks without requiring specialized production software or musical expertise. The 30-second limitation currently positions the feature as most suitable for short-form content, such as social media clips and video projects, rather than full-length music production. However, the underlying technology suggests potential for expansion into longer-form compositions.
This launch reflects a broader trend within the industry towards embedding generative AI tools directly into consumer platforms, expanding creative possibilities beyond text and image generation. The availability of Lyria 3 within Gemini lowers the barrier to entry for music creation, potentially empowering a new wave of amateur musicians and content creators.
Google has not yet announced plans for supporting longer track lengths or the addition of further features, leaving the future development of Lyria 3 and its potential impact on the music industry an open question.
