With the release of iOS 18.1, Apple has finally introduced the long-awaited Call Recording feature, eliminating the need for third-party apps to record calls. However, there are some important considerations like Privacy rights, Compatibility on all iOS devices, and Legal conditions.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to use the inbuilt iPhone call record, outline the legal considerations, and suggest the best alternative apps if your device does not have this feature yet.
Is The iPhone Capable Of Recording Calls Without A Secondary Device?
Yes, the newly built-in recording capability of iOS 18.1 allows you to record phone calls straight on your iPhone. For convenience, this function connects with the Notes app and provides automatic transcribing.
Note: iPhone models running iOS 16.5 or later can record calls.Only iPhone models higher than iPhone X will receive this feature. Also, the call recording option is not available in all countries across the globe. You need to check if this has been introduced in your region for now or will be updated later.
To adhere to privacy regulations, both parties will also be informed when a call is being recorded. You’ll have to rely on third-party apps if you’re using an outdated version of iOS or reside in an area where this feature isn’t accessible.
Is Using An iPhone To Record A Phone Call Considered Legal?
Recording phone calls is subject to legal restrictions that vary depending on your location as well as the location of the person you’re calling. In many areas, recording a conversation without consent is illegal.
There are two main types of consent laws:
- One-party consent: Only one person (you) needs to be aware of and consent to the recording.
- Two-party consent: Both parties must be notified and agree to the recording.
Apple’s built-in call recording feature complies with these laws by notifying all participants when a call is being recorded. However, it’s important to familiarize yourself with local laws and regulations before recording any conversation.
How to Record a Phone Call on iPhone?
Here’s how to use the inbuilt call recording feature if you have upgraded to iOS 18.1:
- Launch the Phone app and initiate a call.
- You will find a new recording icon in the top-left corner of the screen. Tap on it to begin the recording process.
- Both parties will be notified via an automated message that the call is being recorded, and the recording will start automatically.
- Either close the call or hit the recording indicator to stop the recording.
The recording will be stored on your device after the call is over. It is readily accessible from the Notes app in the “Call Recordings” folder. You will also be able to view real-time transcriptions if your device is compatible with Apple Intelligence.
Read Also: How To Use iOS 18 Passwords App On iPhone
How to Transcript a Phone Call on iPhone?
Call Transcription is a new feature in iOS 18 that, in addition to Call Recording, automatically turns your recorded calls into text and saves the audio and transcript in the Notes app.
Transcripts are easily searchable, and you can copy particular passages for easy access. This is particularly useful for going over meetings, interviews, or significant discussions. To access the transcript of a call you just recorded, follow these steps:
- You will be notified by the Notes app when the call is over.
- To access the recording and accompanying transcript, tap the notice.
By selecting Notes > Call Recordings, you can also listen to the recording whenever you want. You can choose from several options:
- Play the audio recording again.
- Examine and look through the transcript.
- Copy particular text passages.
- Distribute the transcript or recording.
Note: Call Transcription is available in a number of languages, including Mandarin Chinese, Korean, Spanish (Mexico), and English (US).
Editor’s Tip – Enable Live Voicemail
While not a new feature, Live Voicemail is another valuable addition introduced in iOS 17. It allows you to see a real-time transcription of a voicemail as it’s being left, so you can decide whether to answer the call based on the message. All voicemail transcripts are saved on your iPhone and can be accessed later through the Phone app. You can even search for specific keywords within transcribed voicemails.
To turn on Live Voicemail, here is what you need to do:
- Go to Settings > Phone > Live Voicemail.
- Toggle Live Voicemail on or off.
Read Also: How To Use Genmoji On iOS 18?
Bonus – Third-Party Call Recording Apps for iPhone
As we have mentioned earlier the new inbuilt call recording feature is not for all iPhones, or iOS versions and is not available in all regions. For the users who do not have access to this feature yet, we suggest using third-party apps that may offer additional features not included in the native app like automatic call recording or cloud storage. Here are some of the top options:
TapeACall
One of the most widely used iPhone call-recording apps is TapeACall. In order to record both sides of the discussion, it combines your call with their servers. Although TapeACall is a premium app, it provides simple sharing options and an infinite recording duration. This might not be the best option for you if you’re searching for a free solution.
Rev Voice Recorder
Rev Call Recorder is a call recording app that is free and has no length restrictions, hidden costs, or advertisements. Professional transcription services are also available, however they are more expensive.
Cube ACR
A straightforward call-recording app for Android and iPhone users is called Cube ACR. It can generate voice memos on the iPhone and record VoIP talks. Both free and premium versions of Cube ACR are available. Basic voice memo recording is supported by the free version, but full call recording, cloud backup, and other features are unlocked by the premium version.
Are You Able To Use The Call Record Feature On iOS 18?
The techniques described in this post will make it simple for you to record calls on your iPhone running iOS 18.1. Use a third-party app if you’re on an earlier version of iOS or need more sophisticated capabilities like cloud storage or automatic recording. Before recording any conversation, always make sure to verify local regulations regarding consent and privacy!
FAQs
Q. Is It Possible for My iPhone to Record Every Call Automatically?
No, iOS 18.1 does not natively allow automated call recording. During a call, you have to manually start each recording or use third-party apps to start them automatically.
Q. What is the iPhone’s maximum recording duration?
As long as you have storage available, there is no upper limit for native recordings in iOS 18.1 (or Voice Memos). However, depending on the app and your membership level, third-party apps could have different limitations.
Q. Where Do My iPhone Call Recordings Get Stored?
The Notes app stores call records from iOS 18.1 in a folder called “Call Recordings.” Recordings from third-party apps are usually kept in app-specific folders within the Files app.