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Watch out Shazam! TikTok is launching Sound Search, its own hum-to-search / sing-to-search feature, allowing users on the platform to discover tracks with their voice or by playing a tune directly into the app.

TikTok’s new “Sound Search” is the social media giant’s response to YouTube’s Hum to Search feature which launched in May.

The social giants’ new tool is designed to enhance the user experience by making it easier to discover and interact with music on the platform. However, Sound Search is currently in its testing phase and is only available to a limited number of users in select regions.

TikTok Sound Search, catchier than YouTube’s Hum to Search – and then some…

Sound Search sets itself apart from other music recognition tools like Shazam & YouTube Music by identifying the song and following up with related TikTok videos featuring the tune.

As a result, this dual functionality TikTok has incorporated makes Sound Search more versatile than Shazam and YouTube Music as these focus only on song identification.

Phone Arena reports the feature has shown promising results, particularly with popular songs frequently used on TikTok.

However, limitations with lesser-known tracks mean the tool fails to display associated videos. Despite this, Sound Search’s ability to present new content through music adds a new layer of engagement for TikTok users once the developers figure out the kinks.

How to use TikTok sound search

  • Tap the microphone icon in the search bar
  • Select the “Sound Search” option
  • Start humming or singing
  • Alternatively, you can play a tune into your device’s microphone

This development is part of TikTok’s ongoing efforts to enhance its platform and keep users engaged. Music is a central element of TikTok, often driving trends and propelling songs to the top of music charts.

Now, by integrating Sound Search, TikTok helps users find songs stuck in their heads and enables them to explore a vast collection of videos related to their musical interests.

As the feature becomes more widely available, it is expected to significantly impact how users discover and interact with music on the platform.