The best call recording apps for iPhone: Recording calls on iPhone devices can be challenging due to iOS restrictions that prevent apps from capturing audio directly during calls. However, many third-party apps have developed innovative methods, such as using intermediary numbers or cloud platforms, to provide call recording functionality. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the best call recording apps for iPhone, along with their features and limitations.
Best Call Recording Apps for iPhone
TapeACall
What we like:
Supports a wide range of regions worldwide.
Features a simple and user-friendly interface.
What we don’t like:
Promotes premium subscriptions upon startup.
High annual fees.
TapeACall is one of the most popular apps for recording calls on iPhones. It bypasses iOS restrictions by creating a three-way call between you, your contact, and TapeACall's servers, where the call is recorded. After the call, a downloadable file of the recording is provided.
The app offers a 6-day free trial to test its features. However, users must carefully follow the setup process; if you try to read more information about how the app works from the welcome screen, the free offer disappears. If this happens, reinstalling the app is necessary to regain access to the free trial.
Skype
What we like:
Allows recording of both video and audio calls.
Automatically backs up recordings online for 30 days.
What we don’t like:
Only supports recording calls from Skype to Skype.
Recordings must be downloaded within 30 days.
Microsoft's Skype offers a built-in call recording feature for calls between Skype users. Users can start recording during a call with a single click, making it very convenient. After the call, recordings are stored in the cloud for 30 days and can be downloaded multiple times during this period.
This feature makes Skype a popular choice for casual users and podcasters who need a reliable way to record conversations.
Call Record
What we like:
Offers transcription services in addition to call recording.
User-friendly interface with a professional design.
What we don’t like:
Transcription costs start at $60 for one hour of audio, which may be excessive for casual users.
Loading the screen can take some time.
The Call Record app, linked to the No Notes platform, is ideal for users who need audio recordings and written transcripts. Transcription can be requested during or after the call when reviewing recordings. Packages are also available for users with specific needs.
Record Calls+
What we like:
Fun features like voice distortion and background noise.
No paid subscriptions.
What we don’t like:
Lacks comprehensive in-app support for troubleshooting.
Credit is quickly depleted, making the app costly over time.
The Record Calls+ app features creative options, such as the ability to modify voices and add background effects. Although it lacks professional tools like transcription, it’s perfect for users looking to add a fun twist to their call recordings.
CallBox - Call Recorder
What we like:
One-week free trial with access to all features.
Offers dark mode and extensive in-app support resources.
What we don’t like:
Requires in-app purchases to enable the recording feature.
Subscription prices can reach up to $50.
CallBox - Call Recorder is designed for beginners, providing detailed guides, instructions, and animated tutorials. In addition to recording calls, it can be used as a voice memo app, making it a versatile tool for personal and professional use.
Google Voice
What we like:
Alerts the other party when recording starts.
Easy to activate recording via the Google Voice website.
What we don’t like:
Only supports recording incoming calls.
Requires setting up a Google Voice account.
Google Voice provides a simple and reliable way to record incoming calls. After setting up a Google Voice account, users can activate recording during an incoming call by pressing "4". Recordings are stored in Google Cloud, ensuring secure access to calls. However, this option does not support outgoing calls.
RecMe
What we like:
Intuitive design suitable for beginners.
Regular updates improve the app.
What we don’t like:
Forwarding numbers are limited to specific countries.
Its cost is quite high.
The RecMe app offers similar functionalities to other apps but stands out for its ease of use and frequent updates. However, its pricing model may deter users from choosing it as their primary call recording app.
Voice Memos
What we like:
Free to use and doesn’t require external apps.
Simple and straightforward setup.
What we don’t like:
Requires a second device to record calls.
Apple's Voice Memos app provides a simple solution for recording calls. By putting the iPhone on speaker and using a second device to record the audio, users can capture their conversations without relying on additional apps. This method is ideal for those who prefer a cost-free or subscription-free solution.
How to use Voice Memos to record calls:
Put the call on speaker mode.
Open Voice Memos on a secondary device.
Press the record button and save the conversation.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why doesn’t the iPhone have a built-in call recording feature?
Apple has not included a call recording feature due to privacy and legal concerns.
2. What is the best app for recording calls on iPhone?
Apps like TapeACall and CallBox are popular choices due to their ease of use. However, the best app depends on your specific needs, such as transcription services or other features.
3. Can I record calls for free on my iPhone?
Yes, some methods, like using Google Voice for incoming calls or the Voice Memos app with a second device, are free. However, many third-party apps require subscriptions or one-time payments.
4. How does TapeACall work?
The TapeACall app uses a three-way calling system. When you start recording, the app connects to its server, creating a three-way call where the conversation is recorded on its platform.
5. Can I record calls on WhatsApp or Skype?
Yes, Skype has a built-in recording feature for calls between Skype users. For WhatsApp, you will need external apps or methods as it does not support direct recording.
6. How long can I store my call recordings?
Most apps store recordings indefinitely unless deleted by the user. In contrast, apps like Skype store recordings in the cloud for only 30 days.
7. Do call recording apps require an internet connection?
Yes, many apps require an active internet connection to set up the three-way calling system or upload recordings to the cloud. Offline methods like Voice Memos do not require an internet connection.
8. Can I record both incoming and outgoing calls?
Most apps, like TapeACall, support both incoming and outgoing calls. However, some, like Google Voice, are limited to recording incoming calls only.
9. What is the most cost-effective way to record calls?
Using Apple’s Voice Memos app with a second device is the most cost-effective solution, as it is free. For app-based solutions, look for those offering free trial versions, like CallBox, before committing to a subscription.
Conclusion
In this article, we discussed the best apps for recording calls on iPhone. Despite the restrictions imposed by Apple’s policies, recording calls on iPhone has become possible with the right tools. From feature-rich apps like TapeACall and CallBox to manual solutions using Voice Memos, there are options to suit everyone and every budget. For premium users, Record Calls+ offers fun features, while professionals may prefer apps focused on transcription like Call Record.
Regardless of the solution you choose, always prioritize legal compliance and inform all parties before recording. With these apps and methods, you can securely and efficiently record important conversations, whether for business, marketing, or personal use.
