AI and Discoverability

Legal framework for digital online listening platforms (DOLP) in Quebec with regard to the discoverability of French-language cultural content

The concept of discoverability, although an old one, has been profoundly transformed by digital technology, notably through the use of technical devices such as recommendation algorithms and the modes of distribution of cultural content that are currently dominant. In the music sector, which has been strongly impacted by this transformation, Digital Online Listening Platforms (DOLP) have established themselves as the main means of content distribution. Through their technical features, they are influencing the way in which works are promoted, and can steer their users' music consumption.

In partnership with CEIMIA

This project is part of a research initiative led by the International Center on Expertise in Artificial Intelligence in Montreal (CEIMIA) on artificial intelligence (AI) applied to discoverability. In parallel with CEIMIA's work on the development of AI tools for discoverability, it aims to analyze the legal framework applicable to PNELs and technical devices for the discoverability of French-language cultural content in Quebec.

 

 

⮕ CEIMIA and the Cyberjustice Laboratory: how do they complement each other?

This project is based on a collaboration between the Cyberjustice Laboratory and CEIMIA, an international non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the development and responsible use of artificial intelligence. This cooperation and the production of this report are in line with the Cyberjustice Laboratory's methodology, based on a multidisciplinary approach combining law and technology.

CEIMIA's contribution is fully in line with this approach, providing technical expertise on the development of AI tools in legal research. This complementary approach enables us to analyze in depth the issues involved in regulating technical devices for discoverability, right from the design stage, while taking technical realities into account.

ObjectiVES

Despite the importance of DOLPs and their technical features, their legal framework in terms of discoverability remains unclear, despite the 2023 amendments to the Broadcasting Act.

The project therefore has several objectives:

 

EXPECTED OUTCOMES

The report will deepen the understanding and legal apprehension of the concept of discoverability of French-language musical cultural content in Quebec, as applied to technical devices, including AI, in order to identify issues related to their implementation.

In addition, it will highlight recommendations and best practices in the development and use of AI for the discoverability of French-language cultural content in Quebec.

This content has been updated on 04/04/2025 at 17 h 10 min.