How to Record Calls on iPhone

How to record calls on iPhone 2025: Native iOS 18.1+ method with transcription, best apps like TapeACall/Rev, legal guide by country & workarounds—step-by-step

Recording important conversations—like interviews, business deals, or family calls—became effortless for iPhone users in late 2024 with Apple's native call recording in iOS 18.1. As of November 2025, this built-in tool works seamlessly on iPhone XR and newer (with transcription on Apple Intelligence models), but availability depends on your region due to privacy laws. This definitive guide shows how to record calls on iPhone using the official method, third-party apps, workarounds, and legal essentials—ensuring you capture audio compliantly and reliably.

How to Record Calls on iOS 18

The Native iOS 18.1+ Call Recording Feature: Requirements and Availability (November 2025)

Apple introduced built-in call recording with iOS 18.1 (October 2024), powered by Apple Intelligence for transcription and summaries.

Key requirements:

• iPhone XR or newer (any model for basic recording).
• iOS 18.1 or later.
• Supported regions: US, Canada, UK, Australia, India, Singapore, Mexico, parts of Asia-Pacific (expanding in 2025).
• Not available in EU countries, China (except Hong Kong/Macau), Middle East (e.g., UAE, Saudi Arabia), Russia, South Korea, Japan, and others due to strict privacy laws.

Transcription/summaries require Apple Intelligence (iPhone 15 Pro+ or iPhone 16 series).

Check availability: Apple Support – Record and transcribe a call on iPhone.

Quick CTA: Update to latest iOS now—go to Settings > General > Software Update!

Step-by-Step: How to Record Calls on iPhone Natively (iOS 18.1+)

Once available:

1. Start or receive a phone call (cellular or FaceTime audio).
2. Look top-left: Tap the record button (microphone icon with red dot).
3. An automated voice announces: "This call will be recorded" (notifies all parties).
4. Recording starts after 3-second countdown.
5. End call or tap button again to stop.
6. Audio saves automatically to Notes app (with transcription if supported). 

How to Record a Phone Call on iPhone (5 Methods) | Beebom

In Notes: Find under "Call Recordings" folder—play, share, or get AI summary. 

How to use call recording and transcription in iOS 18.1

No time limits; works for two-person calls only.

If Native Recording Isn't Available: Best Third-Party Apps (2025)

In restricted regions, use these reliable apps (all merge calls via conference for recording):

TapeACall screenshots:

How to Record a Phone Call on Your iPhone or Android Phone | WIRED

Rev example:

Easy Call Recorder:Phone Rev App - App Store

All notify parties via conference line (legal in most places).

Manual Workarounds (No Apps Needed)

• Speaker + Voice Memos: Put on speaker, record with another device (low quality).
• Mac QuickTime: Connect iPhone via cable, record audio input (macOS only).
• Google Voice: Free for US numbers—incoming calls only.

These avoid apps but reduce quality.

Legal Guide: Is Call Recording Allowed? (2025 Overview)

Laws vary—always check locally and get consent when possible.

• One-party consent (e.g., most US states, UK, Canada, Australia): Only you need to know.
• All-party consent (e.g., California, Florida, EU countries, India for some cases): Everyone must agree.
• Apple's feature always announces recording (complies globally where allowed).

US map/resource: Digital Media Law Project.

Penalty risks: Fines or jail in strict jurisdictions.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• No record button? → Update iOS, check region (Settings > General > Language & Region).
• Transcription missing? → Need Apple Intelligence device + English (expanding 2025).
• Recordings not saving? → Ensure Notes app access; restart Phone app.

For related tips, see our iPhone audio tips guide.

Recording calls on iPhone is now simple, secure, and built-in for most users in 2025—start with the native feature if available.

Try it on your next call: Update iOS and test with a friend (they'll hear the announcement)!

Which method will you use first—native or an app? Share your experience or region (for availability tips) in comments! Bookmark, share with colleagues, and subscribe for more iOS hacks. Crystal-clear recordings await—capture every moment legally!