Samsung Smart TVs add support for Shazam

Shazam has been quietly but quickly securing its reputation as an invaluable smartphone resource. The company’s latest business deal shows how far it has come from its beginnings as an audio identification tool. Shazam is being added to Samsung Electronics’ 2017 Smart TV platform. That means owners of select Samsung televisions will be able to access the service directly from the Smart Hub on the current year’s models without using the Shazam app on their phones.

Shazam can identify songs playing in movies or TV shows. It can reveal a track’s information with a remote control click or via a voice recognition request, such as “What is this song?” The service will also allow viewers to create playlists or play the identified tracks through partner services such as Spotify, Napster, or Deezer.

“We are excited to integrate Shazam’s functionality with another medium that’s enjoyed by so many people around the world, and we couldn’t think of a more fitting partner than Samsung,” Shazam Chief Product Officer Fabio Santini said. “Smart TVs felt like a natural evolution for the Shazam experience, and Samsung has always been a leading innovator in the space. We can’t wait for viewers and Shazam users alike to try this new feature.”

“We are thrilled to provide our Smart TV users with the ultimate music service through our partnership with Shazam,” added Hee-man Lee, vice president of the visual display business at Samsung Electronics. “Smart TV capabilities are constantly evolving with the addition of innovative apps, and we are committed to continually delivering advanced technology through partnerships with highly capable software companies like Shazam.”

Anna Washenko