How to Record a Phone Call on iPhone: 7 Brilliant Methods That Actually Work

how to record a phone call on iphone

How to record a phone call on iPhone is easier than ever—if you’re running iOS 18 or later. Apple finally added an official recording and transcription feature right in the Phone app. During a call, look for the Start Call Recording button; once you tap it, everyone hears an alert that the call is being recorded. Afterward, the audio (and transcript, if supported) is saved in the “Call Recordings” folder inside the Notes app . A neat, native solution—sweet!

1. Use the Built‑in iOS 18+ feature

If you have iOS 18.1+, and are in a region that supports it, this is your easiest and safest route:

Start or receive a call.
Tap Start Call Recording.
A voice prompt tells all parties that recording is happening.
Recording stops when you tap “Stop” or hang up.
Check Notes → Call Recordings for audio and transcript.

Heads up: It’s only available in select countries/languages—check Apple’s region list .

2. Third‑Party Apps

If you don’t have iOS 18 or your region doesn’t support native recording, try apps like:

TapeACall – Uses a 3‑way call to record, offers free trial, $60/year.
Call Record (NoNotes) – Adds transcription, though pricey.
Record Calls+, CallBox, RecMe – Each has its own twists, trial periods, credit systems, etc.

Always check pricing and subscription requirements before diving in.

3. Google Voice (free incoming calls)

Get an incoming call → press “4” during the call to start/stop recording.
The feature announces itself, so consent is automatic.
Works only for incoming calls, and is US‑centric.

4. External Device or Hardware Recorder

No app? No problem:

Put your iPhone on speaker and hit Voice Memos on another iPhone/iPad to record.
Or use gadgets like RecorderGear PR200 plugged into your headset.
Cheap, reliable—though audio quality depends on mic clarity.

5. Record via Skype

For calls between Skype users:

Hit “Record” during the call.
Recordings are saved online and accessible for ~30 days.

6. Legal Stuff

Just because you can record doesn’t mean you should, without checking laws:

In India, one-party consent is allowed if you’re part of the call.
Other countries/states require both-party consent—Apple’s voice prompt helps with this.

🔗 A good read on global laws: Telephone call recording laws – Wikipedia (slightly dry, but useful).

7. Quick Comparison Table

Method	Built‑in	Transcripts	Cost	Works for Outgoing Calls
iOS 18 native	✔	✔	Free	✔
TapeACall, NoNotes, etc.	❌	Some	$5–60/year	✔
Google Voice	❌	No	Free	❌
External Recorder	❌	Only if you transcribe manually	Device cost	✔
Skype	✔ (Skype)	N/A	Free	✔–❌ (Skype only)

Q&A

Q1: Can I record secretly?
Nope. All built‑in and legal methods announce the recording to all parties, ensuring compliance and avoiding legal trouble.

Q2: Where do the files go?

Native iOS files live in Notes → Call Recordings.
Google Voice saves to its Voicemail tab.
Third-party apps may save recordings in-app or export them to cloud services or email.

Q3: What about FaceTime audio calls?
iOS 18+ records FaceTime audio just like regular calls—tap the same recording button.

Q4: Is transcription accurate?
Pretty good in supported languages, but don’t rely on it for legal transcripts—it can have errors. Review and edit as needed.

Final Tips

Always inform the other party or let the app do it for you.
Know your local laws—no legal headaches, please.
Choose the route that fits your situation: native iOS feature if available, third-party if not, or hardware if you prefer.

For more in-depth guides:

Apple Support: Record and transcribe a call on iPhone.
Wired: How to Record Calls on Your Phone.

Hope this helps you capture those essential chats—fairly, safely, and legally. Let me know if you want help picking an app or gear! 😊

Also Read : 10 Mind-Blowing Steps to Discover How to Get iOS 18 Today!