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      July 16, 2026

      every great app has a shortcut

      How Shazam, Duolingo and Flighty reach users before the app even opens.

      Hello app founders, designers, and marketers.

      Nearly 20 years after launch, Shazam still pulls in more than 1M downloads a month.

      Part of that comes down to one small UX decision.

      The fastest way to use Shazam

      During the breakdown, our host swipes down to reveal the iPhone's Control Center.

      Apple gave Shazam a spot right next to Wi-Fi and Low Power Mode.

      Tap once and song recognition becomes as quick as changing your screen brightness.

      Beyond the home screen

      Lock screen widget

      Duolingo puts your current streak on the lock screen, so every time users pick up their phone, they're reminded of today's streak before opening anything.

      Every unlock is another reminder not to lose the streak.

      Siri integration

      Spotify connects to Siri, so users can ask for a playlist while their phone is in their pocket and the music starts without having to touch the screen.

      The Action Button

      Since iPhone 15 Pro, apps can claim the physical Action Button.

      Flighty uses it to show your gate, baggage carousel and flight updates with a single press.

      Every app has one shortcut

      Every app has one thing people keep coming back for.

      The closer you move that action to the user, the more often people will use it.

      What's the fastest possible path to your app's main action?

      Watch the full Shazam breakdown:

      YouTube video by App Breakdown

      Shazam's Best Feature Is Not What You Think | App Breakdown #77

      See you next week,

      The App Store Tracker Team

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