After years of anticipation, iPhone users finally have access to call recording—a feature Android users have enjoyed for years. Today, Apple released the iOS 18.1 update, delivering a suite of innovations and improvements across its devices. Topping the list of changes is the new call recording capability, a much-requested feature that has been on users’ wishlists for years.
Until now, iPhone call recording was limited due to Apple's privacy and security constraints, requiring users to rely on complex third-party apps. With the release of iOS 18.1, Apple now allows call recording directly within the device while upholding user privacy.
Beyond call recording, iOS 18.1 includes significant security upgrades, user interface enhancements, and performance boosts, especially for older iPhone models. The update also features improvements to the Camera app, enhancements for Night Mode, and expanded functionality for Siri.
How Call Recording Works in iOS 18.1
Call recording in iOS 18.1 is designed to be simple and user-friendly, integrated directly into the iPhone’s call interface without needing an external app. Here’s how it works:
1. During a call, users tap the record button, visible alongside other in-call options like mute, speaker, and add call.
2. Before recording begins, an on-screen notification appears, reminding users that the call will be recorded and advising them to inform the other party. This notification aligns with Apple’s commitment to user privacy and helps prevent legal issues.
3. After users confirm, the recording starts, with the entire conversation saved in high quality in a dedicated folder within the Voice Memos app.
4. Users can pause or resume recording anytime during the call and have the option to save the file to cloud storage or share it directly with others.
Call recording is available on iPhone 12 models and newer, taking advantage of the enhanced processing capabilities of recent iPhone models. While users with older devices, starting from iPhone 11, can also access call recording, audio quality may be somewhat reduced on these models.
As part of Apple’s commitment to privacy, the company emphasizes that users must inform the other party of the recording, in accordance with local laws. Many countries require explicit consent from all parties before a call can be legally recorded.