How to record calls on iPhone with iOS 18.1

After years of resisting the functionality, Apple finally introduced the ability to record phone calls on the iPhone with the recently rolled-out iOS 18.1 update. While the new functionality will work on all iOS 18.1-compatible iPhone models, it uses Apple Intelligence features for the transcription functionality. Call recording on iPhones works similarly to how it works on Android phones, involving an announcement for both users on a line that the call recording has started.

Before jumping on the bandwagon, iPhone users must ensure their device runs the latest iOS 18.1 update and that their device is one of the following:

• iPhone 16
• iPhone 16 Plus
• iPhone 16 Pro
• iPhone 16 Pro Max
• iPhone 15
• iPhone 15 Plus
• iPhone 15 Pro
• iPhone 15 Pro Max
• iPhone 14
• iPhone 14 Plus
• iPhone 14 Pro
• iPhone 14 Pro Max
• iPhone 13
• iPhone 13 mini
• iPhone 13 Pro
• iPhone 13 Pro Max
• iPhone 12
• iPhone 12 mini
• iPhone 12 Pro
• iPhone 12 Pro Max
• iPhone 11
• iPhone 11 Pro
• iPhone 11 Pro Max
• iPhone XS
• iPhone XS Max
• iPhone XR
• iPhone SE (2nd generation or later)

However, since Apple Intelligence is available only on the iPhone 16 series, iPhone 16 Pro series, and iPhone 15 Pro lineup, the call transcript feature will not work on the remaining iPhone models. Users also need to activate Apple Intelligence on their supported iPhone devices by setting the device language to US English.

Recording a Call

• Start a Call: Make or receive a call as normal.  
• Tap the Record Button: During the call, users will see a record button in the top left corner of the screen. Tap it to start recording.  
• Notification: An audible notification will play to inform all participants that the call is being recorded.  
• Real-time Transcription (Optional): If Apple Intelligence is enabled, a real-time transcription of the conversation will appear on your screen.

Accessing Recordings

• End the Call: Once the call is over, the recording will be saved to the Voice Notes app.  
• Find the Recording: Open the Voice Notes app and locate the recorded call.