Military drones instead of songs and podcasts: Daniel Ek knows how to enter future-proof industries

Spotify founder Daniel Ek is making waves again, this time not with music streaming but with investments in defense technology. His company, Helsing, a Munich-based startup specializing in autonomous weapons systems, has recently been valued at $18 billion following a new funding round. Ek, who chairs Helsing's board, has been a significant investor since November 2021.

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We do not want our music to kill people. We do not want our success to be linked to AI combat technology.

Ek's foray into the defense sector has ignited controversy, particularly among musicians who have a complex relationship with Spotify due to its payment structures. Many artists have boycotted Spotify, not only over low streaming royalties but also due to Ek's investment in Helsing. The American indie rock band Deerhoof famously stated, "We do not want our music to kill people. We do not want our success to be linked to AI combat technology."

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This move into military technology marks a stark contrast to Ek's previous venture. Twenty years ago, he built Spotify by offering music rental rather than sales, a model that revolutionized the industry. Now, he is investing in systems capable of destroying military targets and potentially killing humans. This pivot has led to Ek being described as one of Europe's most polarizing entrepreneurs.

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it is the right thing for Europe

Despite the backlash, Ek appears undeterred, viewing his investment in Helsing as crucial for Europe. He told the Financial Times that there is a significant recognition that artificial intelligence, mass, and autonomy will shape modern warfare. Ek, who became a millionaire at 22 and a billionaire by 35, has a track record of identifying future technologies.

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there is an enormous realization that AI, mass and autonomy will shape modern warfare