Starting with iOS 18.1, Apple introduced a new feature that makes recording calls on the iPhone straightforward, with no need to install any additional apps. This is a native feature of iOS 18.1, available on all compatible iPhone models.
Recording calls on an iPhone is highly useful when you need an accurate record of an important conversation without missing any details. Whether it’s a call with your boss, a colleague, a client, or, in the case of journalists, a source, this feature proves extremely beneficial. Most people find it challenging to take notes in real-time without losing essential parts of the conversation. With the new call recording feature, you can always revisit discussed details, as a full transcript is saved in the Notes app. Essentially, everything spoken in a recorded call is saved in both text and audio formats.
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How Does Call Recording on iPhone Work?
During a call, you’ll notice a small soundwave icon in the upper left corner of the screen, above the profile picture of the person you’re calling. To start recording, tap this icon, and after a three-second countdown, Siri will inform both parties that the call is being recorded. This notification helps prevent potential legal issues related to privacy.
Once the call recording is active, a timer will appear in the center of the screen. You can stop recording at any time by pressing the red stop button, or you can end the call to automatically complete the recording. The recording will be saved in the Notes app under the “Call Recordings” folder, where you can listen to the recording or read the automatically generated transcript.
Why Isn’t the Call Recording Feature Available on iPhones with iOS 18.1?
Although Apple has implemented a system that informs participants that a call is being recorded, laws in certain countries and regions do not permit call recording at all. Therefore, if you’re in the European Union or countries such as Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Morocco, Nigeria, Oman, Pakistan, Qatar, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, or Yemen, call recording on iPhone is not allowed, and the feature is unavailable.
Related: How to Hide Apps on iPhone or iPad in iOS 18
Conclusion
This call recording feature eliminates the need for third-party apps, expensive subscriptions, or external devices to record phone conversations. Apple has simplified the process, and the notification of both parties about the recording provides you with legal protection.
