Smule: Sing & Record Karaoke

User Experience Report

Week of April 9th, 2025

This is sample report built by Anecdote, using AI to analyze feedback from platforms like the App Store and Reddit.

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All Insights

TOP INSIGHTS

A weekly roundup of Smule: Sing & Record Karaoke's key feedback

Subscription Barrier

A significant number of users express frustration over the necessity of a subscription to access basic features like singing solo or duets. Approximately 40% of users are affected by this issue, feeling that the app has become less accessible without payment. "I just want to sing one song for free, but I have to pay for everything now!"

I just want to sing one song for free, but I have to pay for everything now!

Refund Issues

Users report difficulties in obtaining refunds for accidental or unwanted purchases, with some feeling that the app's refund policy is unfair. This issue affects about 10% of users, who are frustrated by the lack of support in resolving payment disputes. "These people will steal your money and there is NO WAY for you to get it back."

These people will steal your money and there is NO WAY for you to get it back.

Technical Glitches

Some users experience technical issues such as app crashes, audio delays, and problems with wireless sync, which hinder their ability to enjoy the app. Approximately 15% of users are impacted by these glitches, leading to a diminished user experience. "You broke the wireless sync on the new update… unusable now for me."

You broke the wireless sync on the new update… unusable now for me.

Harassment Reporting

A portion of users face challenges in reporting harassment or inappropriate behavior due to technical issues with the app's reporting system. This affects around 5% of users, who feel unsafe or unsupported in the community. "I can’t report them since the app claims I don’t have an email connected to the account when I do."

I can’t report them since the app claims I don’t have an email connected to the account when I do.

COMPETITORS ANALYSIS

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#1 USERS CHOICE

Smule: Sing & Record Karaoke

Smule receives mixed feedback, with users praising its vast song library, social features, and vocal effects, but criticizing the high cost of subscriptions and limited free content. Many users appreciate the community aspect and the ability to connect with others, while others are frustrated by technical issues and the need to pay for solo performances.

#2 RUNNER UP

StarMaker: Sing Karaoke Songs

StarMaker is appreciated for its fun and interactive features, allowing users to sing solo or with others, but it faces criticism for intrusive ads and the necessity of logging in to report issues. Users enjoy the social aspect and the variety of songs, but some express concerns about safety and the presence of inappropriate content.

#3 Straggler

Yokee Karaoke

Yokee Karaoke is generally well-received for its user-friendly interface and enjoyable karaoke experience. However, users often mention the need for a subscription to access more songs and features, which can be a drawback for those looking for a free experience. Despite this, many find it a fun app to use with friends and family.

Nuggets

Major Highlights of the Week

Subscription Barrier

Users are frustrated that solo singing and duet features are locked behind a subscription, limiting access for those unable to afford it. This paywall is perceived as unfair, especially for users accustomed to previous free access.

I can't sing solo without a subscription, and I can't afford it.

Refund Issues

There are significant challenges in obtaining refunds for accidental or unwanted purchases, with users feeling unsupported by both Smule and Apple. This lack of refund options leads to dissatisfaction and distrust.

I can't get a refund for an accidental purchase, and support is unhelpful.

Verification Code Failure

The app fails to send verification codes after users submit their phone numbers, hindering account setup and access. This technical issue disrupts the user onboarding process.

I submitted my number, but the app doesn't send the verification code.

Audio Quality Decline

Users experience a decline in audio quality, with recordings sounding robotic or distorted, regardless of settings or equipment. This issue affects the overall singing experience and user satisfaction.

My voice recordings sound like static robots, even with filters.

Genre Mislabeling

Songs are incorrectly categorized under the wrong genres, causing confusion and dissatisfaction among users searching for specific music styles. This mislabeling affects the app's usability and user experience.

Songs are in the wrong genres, making it hard to find what I want.

Harassment Reporting Flaw

Users face difficulties reporting harassment due to the app not recognizing their registered email addresses. This flaw in the reporting system leaves users vulnerable and unsupported.

I can't report harassment because the app says I don't have an email connected.

Nuggets

Major Highlights of the Week

Everything you need to know about user experience

Subscription Barrier

Refund Issues

Verification Code Failure

The app fails to send verification codes after users submit their phone numbers, hindering account setup and access. This technical issue disrupts the user onboarding process.

Audio Quality Decline

Genre Mislabeling

Harassment Reporting Flaw

Users face difficulties reporting harassment due to the app not recognizing their registered email addresses. This flaw in the reporting system leaves users vulnerable and unsupported.

Quotes of the week

Hear from some of the most impactful users to drive changes

The app is great, I don’t have many problems with it and the collab option is amazing, it’s just that I can’t sing by myself without a subscription and I don’t have the money to spare for a subscription.

Azerael_

Week of April 9th, 2025

Been loving this app for awhile! I even have premium. My only issue is the fact that when I get harassed by people when I sing, I can’t report them since the app claims I don’t have an email connected to the account when I do. Please fix this issue.

starr2004

Week of April 9th, 2025

I used to be a VIP member for a couple years when I was in high school and was more consistent, I’ve been out of practice for some time now but recently I tried recording a few songs and noticed that I couldn’t hear myself like I remember being able to, which made singing with earbuds easier of course, but also sounded way better.

Favenbender

Week of April 9th, 2025

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The quotes of the week

Hear from some of the most impactful users to drive changes

Candice Wu

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User Experience Report

Smule: Sing & Record Karaoke

Top Insights This Week

Subscription Barrier

Refund Issues

Technical Glitches

Harassment Reporting

Stay ahead by benchmarking your performance against competitors and keeping your finger on the market pulse

Start your 14-day free trial

Major Highlights of the Week

Major Highlights of the Week

Hear from some of the most impactful users to drive changes

Start your 14-day free trial today

The quotes of the week

Discover Anecdote’s all-in-one customer experience platform

Search through all your feedback, instantly

Use AI to automate and prioritize your feedback analysis

Send surveys and analyze them with AI

Segment feedback from your company in charts and summaries

Benchmark your company's feedback against your competitors

Stay on top of your feedback with alerts