Want to record important calls on your iPhone for reference, interviews, or personal records? While Apple doesn’t provide a built-in call recording feature due to privacy laws and restrictions, there are still safe, legal, and effective ways to record phone calls on your iPhone — and we’ll walk you through all of them.

This guide covers step-by-step methods, including third-party apps, Google Voice, and external tools, so you can find the best solution for your needs in 2025.

✅ Table of Contents

1. Why iPhones Don’t Have Native Call Recording
2. Legal Disclaimer
3. Best Ways to Record Calls on iPhone
   • Using Google Voice
   • Using Third-Party Apps
   • Using an External Recorder
   • Using Voicemail Trick
4. Best Call Recording Apps for iOS
5. FAQs
6. Final Thoughts

❗ Why iPhones Don’t Have Built-In Call Recording

Apple prioritizes user privacy and adheres strictly to laws in different regions. Call recording is legal in some countries and illegal in others — especially if consent isn’t given. Because of this, iOS doesn’t have a native feature for call recording.

But don’t worry! There are workarounds that let you record calls legally and securely — with a few extra steps.

⚖️ Legal Disclaimer: Always Get Consent

Recording a phone call without the other person’s consent may be illegal in many countries and states.

Always inform and get consent from the other party before recording any call. Check your local and national laws regarding call recording.

🔍 How to Record Calls on iPhone: 4 Proven Methods

📱 Method 1: Using Google Voice (Free & Easy)

Best for: Incoming calls only (USA/Canada)

Steps:

1. Download the Google Voice app from the App Store and sign in with your Google account.
2. Go to Settings > Calls > Incoming Call Options and enable call recording.
3. Make sure you’re receiving the call via your Google Voice number.
4. During the call, press “4” on the dial pad to start recording.
5. Google Voice announces that the call is being recorded.
6. Press “4” again to stop. Recordings are saved in the Google Voice app > Voicemail tab.

✅ Pros: Free, legal, and simple
❌ Cons: Only records incoming calls, not available in all regions

📲 Method 2: Using Third-Party Call Recording Apps

Many apps offer call recording via conference calling or cloud storage. Top ones include:

• Rev Call Recorder (Free for incoming/outgoing in the U.S.)
• TapeACall Pro
• Call Recorder iCall

General Steps (e.g., TapeACall):

1. Install the call recorder app and grant permissions.
2. Start or receive a call within the app.
3. Tap “Merge Calls” to start recording (uses 3-way calling).
4. Recordings are saved in the app and can be shared/exported.

✅ Pros: Works for both incoming/outgoing
❌ Cons: Requires merging calls, some apps need subscription

🎙️ Method 3: Use an External Voice Recorder

If you’re having a physical conversation or using speakerphone:

Steps:

1. Put the iPhone on speaker mode during the call.
2. Use a digital voice recorder or a second smartphone with a recording app.
3. Record the entire conversation.

✅ Pros: Bypasses all app restrictions
❌ Cons: Manual setup, poor audio if not positioned well

📤 Method 4: Use iPhone’s Voicemail Hack (Some Carriers Only)

Some users use this clever workaround:

Steps:

1. Call the person and let them know you’re recording.
2. Add your own number to the call using the “Add Call” > Dial your number.
3. Tap Merge Calls to record the call into your voicemail.
4. After the call, retrieve the recording from your Voicemail tab.

✅ Pros: No third-party apps
❌ Cons: Carrier-dependent, doesn’t work with all iPhones or networks

📱 Best Call Recording Apps for iPhones in 2025

❓FAQs

🔹 Is it legal to record calls on iPhone?

Yes, with consent. Most states in the U.S. require one-party consent, but others require both parties to agree. Check your local laws.

🔹 Can I record WhatsApp or FaceTime calls?

Not directly. Apple doesn’t allow recording VoIP calls via screen recording. You’ll need screen recording + external audio setup or a Mac with QuickTime workaround.

🔹 Where are recordings stored?

Third-party apps store them within the app or cloud, while Google Voice saves them under Voicemail > Google Voice app.

🚀 Final Thoughts: Stay Legal, Stay Clear

While Apple doesn’t make it easy to record calls, there are still multiple reliable workarounds for iPhone users. Just make sure you:

• ✅ Get consent
• ✅ Choose a method or app that suits your need
• ✅ Regularly check for legal updates in your region

Whether you’re a journalist, freelancer, or just want to capture meaningful conversations, this guide ensures you’re doing it right.