Shazam gives unlimited free tagging to iOS users

Previously, users of the free app were restricted to five tags a month.

This is a pretty major strategy shift for the music ID firm, bringing it in line with its close competitor SoundHound, which has always used this business model.

The premium edition of Shazam, Shazam Encore, will now be sold on the basis of no in-app advertising and the LyricPlay feature, which allows users to view the lyrics as they listen to the track.

To promote the change, Shazam is launching a Goldentag sweepstake with the chance to win £15,000. Each time people Shazam a song, they have a chance to win the cash prize.

Andrew Fisher, Shazam CEO said, “Shazamers already identify over 1 billion songs each year and go on to purchase over $100 million in digital music via our service.

"Now, with no limits, people can Shazam even more songs they don’t know – or they already know - to conveniently purchase them, see the lyrics, watch the official music video, share on Facebook, Twitter or email, get recommendations and purchase concert tickets instantly. Unlimited free access means people can use Shazam even more as part of their daily lives”.