TikTok is stepping up its game against YouTube Music and Shazam with a new feature called “Sound Search,” which allows users to find a sound by singing, humming, or playing it.
This feature, currently available to select users in certain regions, aims to enhance the user experience by offering an innovative way to discover music and trends on the platform.
Sound Search is set to revolutionize how users interact with TikTok, especially in a platform where song-based trends change rapidly. This tool helps users find specific songs but also aids in understanding and keeping up with the latest trends. Unlike Shazam, which requires the actual song to be played for recognition, TikTok’s Sound Search can identify songs based on singing or humming, adding a unique edge to its functionality.
Comparatively, while Shazam is the most renowned for song recognition, and YouTube Music offers a similar feature, TikTok’s tool goes a step further by connecting users to videos that use the identified sounds. This integration is particularly beneficial for those looking to engage with trending content on the app, making it easier to find related videos and participate in viral trends.
However, the feature isn’t without its limitations. During testing, it was observed that Sound Search performs better with popular songs widely used on TikTok. For instance, it quickly recognized and linked videos for well-known songs like Rihanna’s “Umbrella.” Conversely, it struggled with less popular tracks, occasionally providing generic results instead of specific videos. Despite these early glitches, TikTok’s Sound Search shows promise as a powerful tool for music discovery and trend participation.
