How to identify songs on iPhone

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To identify songs on your iPhone, you can use the built-in Shazam feature in the Control Center, the Music app, or third-party apps. Each method allows you to quickly recognize songs playing around you, providing you with the title and artist information.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before you start identifying songs on your iPhone, ensure you have the following:
  • •iPhone running iOS 14 or later for Shazam integration.
  • •Active internet connection (Wi-Fi or cellular data).
  • •Shazam app installed (if using the app method).
  • •Microphone access enabled for the app you are using.

Method 1: Using Shazam in Control Center

This method is the quickest way to identify songs using the built-in Shazam feature on iPhones running iOS 14 and later.
  • •Step 1: Swipe down from the top-right corner of the screen to access the Control Center (on iPhones with Face ID) or swipe up from the bottom (on iPhones with a Home button).
  • •Step 2: Look for the Shazam icon (a blue circle with a white 'S'). Tap it to start listening for music.
  • •Step 3: Wait for a few seconds while Shazam identifies the song. A notification will appear at the top of the screen with the song title and artist.
  • •Step 4: If the song is identified, tap the notification to view more details or listen to the song in Apple Music.

For iOS 15 and later

In iOS 15, Shazam offers improved recognition speed and accuracy.
  • •Ensure your iPhone is updated to iOS 15 or later for the best experience.
  • •You can also enable 'Shazam in Control Center' from Settings > Control Center > Customize Controls.

For iOS 14

The steps are similar, but the recognition may take slightly longer.
  • •Follow the same steps as above, but be aware that the interface may look slightly different.

Method 2: Using the Shazam App

If you prefer using the Shazam app directly, follow these steps:
  • •Step 1: Open the Shazam app on your iPhone. If you don't have it, download it from the App Store.
  • •Step 2: Tap the large Shazam button in the center of the screen to start listening.
  • •Step 3: Wait for the app to identify the song. A notification will display the song title and artist once recognized.
  • •Step 4: Tap on the song to view more details, including lyrics and streaming options.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while trying to identify songs, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'No song found' - Solution: Ensure the song is playing loudly enough and is not too distorted.
  • •Issue: Shazam not responding - Fix: Restart the app or your iPhone and try again.
  • •Problem: Shazam not recognizing songs - Workaround: Try using a different app like SoundHound or Musixmatch.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your song identification experience with these tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: N/A - Shazam does not have keyboard shortcuts on iPhone.
  • •Hidden feature: Shazam can identify songs playing on your device. Simply play a song and tap the Shazam button.
  • •Tip: Enable 'Auto Shazam' in the Shazam app settings to automatically identify songs without tapping the button.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For the best song identification experience, keep your iPhone updated and use the Control Center for quick access.