How Much Does It Cost to Build an App like Shazam?

Let’s be real for a second: You know the moment when you hear a really catchy tune on an Instagram reel and that’s stuck in your head, but you just can’t place it?

This is where apps like Shazam come into play.

It’s the app that can instantly identify any song playing around you- whether you’re at a coffee shop, in the car, or at a party. It’s slick, smart, and a total game-changer for anyone who’s ever wondered, “Oh! What’s that song?”

This uniqueness has attracted businesses to duplicate the success of Shazam, and that makes them Google:

“How Much Does it Cost to Build an App like Shazam?”

A ballpark figure for a Shazam-like app development cost can be somewhere between $10,000 to $60,000+ and it can increase if you go for something unique.

We’re about to break down what goes into building a music recognition app like Shazam & how much will it cost you. Ready? Let’s dive in:

What is Shazam App?

So, what is Shazam exactly?

It’s that genius app that can listen to a song and instantly tell you its title and artist.

Whether you’re at a party, heard a tune on TikTok, or just chilling in a café, Shazam uses audio recognition technology to pinpoint the song.

It’s one of those apps you didn’t need until you’re in the moment and want to find out what that catchy track is.

If you’re looking to create a music recognition app like Shazam, you might be wondering how much it would cost to bring such a project to life.

After all, building a music app like it includes advanced features and technology to make it work flawlessly.

But, before the cost, one thing that separates this music discovery app from others is its working, knowing this will allow you to differentiate yourself:

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how the Shazam app works:

• The user downloads and installs the Shazam app on their device from the App Store or Google Play.
• Once installed, the user opens the app and is greeted with a simple interface, ready to identify music.
• To begin identifying a song, the user presses the Shazam button. The app activates the device’s microphone to listen to music.
• Shazam listens to the music playing around the user and captures a unique audio "fingerprint" of the song.
• The app compares the captured fingerprint with a vast database of millions of songs stored in its system.
• Within seconds, Shazam identifies the song and provides details like the song title, artist, and album.
• The app also displays extra details such as music videos, lyrics, and even options to purchase or stream the song on services like Spotify or Apple Music.
• Users can save songs to their library, share them with friends, or explore more about the artist and music.

It’s a simple, seamless process that allows users to identify songs instantly and discover new music effortlessly! 

And, well the cost part, we haven’t forgotten about it.

How Much Does it Cost to Develop an App like Shazam?

On average, the Shazam-like app development cost can be somewhere between $10,000 to $60,000+. But, it can be pricey, as there are several factors that affect the overall cost.

Among which Features of the app, complexity, and development team location are common.

So, know the cost of your project, make sure to consult with an app development company and get the guidance you need.

To give you an idea of what to expect, here’s an overview of the cost to develop an app like Shazam:

This table gives you a detailed look at your music app development cost. As we told you repeatedly, there are several factors that affect the overall cost to create a music recognition app like Shazam.

Time to know those factors, let’s get right into it:

Factors Affecting the Cost to Build an App Like Shazam

When taking into account how much does it cost to create an app like Shazam, several key factors come into play.

Understanding these factors will help you budget more effectively and set realistic expectations for your project, ensuring you get the best value while creating the app of your dreams.

1. Development Team Location

When it comes to deciding where your development team should be located, it’s like choosing the perfect venue for a concert.

If you go for high-end experiences like hiring a team from North America or Western Europe, consider a big price tag. The team located at a place with a higher cost of living might charge a premium amount for their expertise.

Outsourcing to a place like India can dramatically cut the cost to create a music identification app like Shazam.

Think about what fits your project decision can save you thousands, but remember, cheaper doesn’t always mean better.

2. Complexity

Let’s face it: Apps like Shazam don’t grow on trees.

The cost to develop an app like Shazam hinges a lot on the features you want to build.

Want a simple music recognition tool? You’re in the clear for a more affordable price tag.

But, if you want to push the boundaries and walk with some evolving music app trends -think personalized playlists, social sharing, or even AI-driven recommendations- the price can skyrocket.

The more features you pack into your app, the higher the cost to make an app like Shazam. After all, the complexity means more time, more coding, and more tech wizardry.

3. UI/UX Design

The cost to build an app like Shazam isn’t just about functionality-it’s about how it feels to use it.

Your app could have the best tech in the world, but if it’s clunky, people won’t stick around. That’s where UI/UX design comes in.

A sleek, eye-captivating design that makes the app feel effortless and enjoyable will cost more, but it’s worth every penny.

You’re not just building app-you’re creating an experience.

The more polished and interactive you want it, the bigger the cost to create a music identification app like Shazam. Got it?

4. Features of Your App

If you’re wondering how much does it cost to create an app like Shazam, it all comes down to what kind of music app features you want to incorporate.

Sure, basic song recognition might be simple, but if you dream big- social sharing, voice commands, real-time, the cost to create an app like Shazam can get hefty.

Every extra feature adds layers to complexity, testing, and additional development time.

But still, you’ve got to think beyond just identifying songs-what else can your app do?

5. Testing

You’ve got your idea, your design, and your features, now the fun part: Testing.

To create an app that’s successful in the market, you need to ensure extensive testing, so understand that the cost to make an app like Shazam doesn’t end with development.

You have to spot bugs, ensure better user experience, and get everything just right.

While basic testing can be done quickly, a thorough QA process for a music app with tons of features is  time-consuming if you want to avoid errors or crashes.

6. Maintenance & Updates

Once the app is launched, it’s not time to sit back and relax: Work on updates. 

The Shazam-like app development cost includes ongoing maintenance. As devices evolve and new ones roll out, your app needs to stay compatible.

Plus, bug fixes, new features, and user-requested changes are all part of the package.

Depending on how often you want to update your app, the cost to develop an app can vary year to year, but it’s an essential ongoing expense.

7. Tech Stack

The technology stack is the backbone of your app-it’s what makes everything tick. It’s a bit of a challenge in music apps to choose the right tech stack.

Whether you’re using the latest AI tech to power your music recognition or integrating cloud storage, the cost to create an app like Shazam depends heavily on your chosen tech stack.

A robust tech stack ensures smooth performance but requires more development time. 

Whether you’re sticking to a simple setup or going all-in with advanced tech, it’s crucial to pick the right tech for the job:

There you go! With these detailed tables paired with an explanation, we believe you got a better understanding of the cost to make an app like Shazam.

Let’s shift our focus to how to optimize your Shazam clone app development cost. Shall we?

How to Reduce the Overall Shazam-like App Development Cost?

So, now that we know the cost to create an app like Shazam can vary as per different factors, we are about to dive in to learn the key strategies for reducing these expenses without compromising on quality.

Here are a few ways to cut down the cost:

► Outsource to Lower-Cost Regions

One of the most effective ways to reduce the cost to develop an app like Shazam is by outsourcing your development team to regions with lower labor costs such as Asia.

Skilled developers in this area can provide top-notch services at a fraction of the price of North American, or Western European means.

This can significantly lower your cost to build a music identification app like Shazam, freeing up resources for another aspect of the project.

► Opt for a Minimum Viable Product

Rather than going all out from the start, consider launching a minimum viable product. By focusing on core features, you can cut down development time as well as expenses.

This is a smart strategy to reduce the Shazam-like app development cost and test the waters before diving into more complex functionalities.

► Leverage Open-Source Libraries and Frameworks

Don’t reinvent the wheel.

By leveraging open-source libraries & frameworks, you can dramatically reduce the cost to make an app like Shazam.

There are tons of pre-built solutions for everything from music recognition to cloud storage.

Utilizing these resources allows you to separate yourself among top music apps by focusing on some unique elements of your app, cutting down both development time and cost while building a top-tier app.

► Focus on the Platform First

Building an app for multiple platforms will always be pricier.

If you want to reduce the overall cost to develop a music discovery app like Shazam, focus on the platform first.

Once your app is established and generating revenue, you can consider expanding to other platforms.

This phased approach can significantly decrease the initial cost to build an app like Shazam and make it easier to allocate funds for future growth.

► Use a lean Development Approach

A lean approach to development focuses on working smarter, not harder.

This means constantly evaluating whether a feature is truly necessary or if it’s just a nice to have. By avoiding unnecessary features, you can reduce both development time & cost.

Whether you are starting a music business or expanding an existing one, adopting this strategy can help you trim the cost to create a Shazam-like app while focusing on delivering a streamlined product that aligns with your music business goals.

► Automate the Testing & Quality Assurance

Manual testing can be time-consuming and expensive.

Instead, consider using automated testing tools to speed up the process and reduce the cost to make an app like Shazam.

Automated tests can catch bugs quickly, which can save both time and money in the long run.

By reducing human error and streamlining the testing process, you can keep your project on schedule and within budget.

► Consider Pre-Built Music Recognition Solutions

Instead of building a music recognition solution like Shazam from scratch, consider pre-built solutions from third-party providers.

Many music apps already leverage powerful music recognition technology, and using these tools can drastically lower the Shazam clone app development cost.

This not only saves development time but also allows you to focus on other areas, such as marketing your app.

These strategies offer practical solutions which are tried and tested to cut down the cost to create an app like Shazam while still producing a quality product.

With that being said, let’s leave the cost behind and move towards the money-making models.

How Shazam-like Apps Make Money?

Well, that’s a valid question. After all, Shazam-like app development costs can be hefty.

When it comes to monetizing a music app, there are several strategies that can help you generate revenue without compromising the user experience.

Here are the most popular ways these apps make money:

1] In-App Ads

One of the easiest ways to monetize a Shazam-like app is through in-app advertisement.

By partnering with ad networks like Google AdMob, you can display ads within your app and earn money every time users engage with them.

If ads are placed strategically, it allows the app to generate revenue without disrupting the user experience. It’s a straightforward approach to increasing profitability.

2] Subscription Model

Shazam also has a paid version with premium features like unlimited song recognition and no ads.

You can adopt a similar model by offering a subscription-based service where users pay for enhanced features.

The cost to make an app like Shazam can be recouped over time as your subscription base grows.

3] Affiliate Marketing & Partnerships

Affiliate marketing is another lucrative revenue model for apps like Shazam. 

By partnering with apps like Spotify or Apple Music, you can earn a commission whenever users click on a song and are directed to a paid subscription service.

With Shazam-like apps, you can even generate income by offering users the option to purchase tracks or albums directly through affiliate links.

4] Data Monetization

Apps like Shazam have access to valuable user data, such as listening habits, music preferences, and location data.

With user consent, this data can be sold to third-party music companies, advertisers, or market researchers.

Monetizing data allows you to earn money while improving your app’s features.

5] Selling Music Rights

For a more direct approach, some shazam-like apps generate revenue by selling licensing rights for songs, either to music companies or other platforms.

If your app becomes popular and gains substantial traffic, record labels and artists may seek your app for promotional opportunities.

This can be a profitable revenue stream for apps that go beyond simple recognition and dive into the music discovery and promotion ecosystem.

How JPLoft Can Help You Develop an App like Shazam?

Millions of music lovers are looking for a new app to engage them, basically, an innovative way of discovering and enjoying music.

If you are planning to develop an app like Shazam then establishing a collaboration with a music app development company i.e. JPLoft has become the need of the hour.

With expertise in AI-powered music recognition, seamless integrations, and user-friendly designs, JPLoft ensures your app not only meets but exceeds industry standards.

From the initial idea till post-launch support, we offer services for a complete process that will assist in creating a Shazam clone app that stands out.

Wrapping It Up

Developing an application like Shazam has to be planned including how much does it cost to develop a music discovery app like Shazam.

We looked at key development costs, different Influencing factors that affect pricing, and balancing strategies for revenue that might mean your music recognition app is not just great, but also a money spinner.

Working with the best development company like JPLoft will help you overcome any challenge and turn your idea into reality.