iOS 18 introduces a native call recording feature built directly into the Phone app, addressing a long-standing demand from iPhone users who previously relied on third-party apps or complicated workarounds. Apple has implemented this feature with a strong focus on privacy and transparency.
When a call recording begins, iOS 18 automatically announces to all participants on the call that the conversation is being recorded. This announcement is made using a synthesized voice to ensure everyone is clearly informed. Additionally, if someone new joins the call later, the system re-announces that the recording is in progress. This would prevent any surreptitious recording, ensuring all parties have knowledge and consent to the recording on the call. This announcement does not explicitly ask for permission but serves as a clear notification. If any participant does not want to be recorded, they can simply hang up the call, providing an immediate opt-out option.
Visually, while recording is active, the iPhone screen displays a recording status indicator including a timer and waveform, maintaining continuous transparency about the recording to the user initiating it. This visual feedback complements the audio announcement and keeps the user aware of ongoing recording.
To further ensure privacy, all call recordings and transcripts are saved locally on the device in the Apple Notes app, stored securely with end-to-end encryption. The transcription of the call happens entirely on the iPhone using Apple Intelligence, meaning the audio and text data of the conversation never leave the device. This design decision mitigates risks associated with cloud storage or third-party server processing, aligning with Apple's privacy-first ethos.
Users can access recorded calls and their transcripts within the Notes app, where call recordings are organized in a dedicated "Call Recordings" folder. Transcripts are automatically generated in near real-time and include speaker identification when possible, enhancing usability and clarity. For iPhones with Apple Intelligence supportâsuch as the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Maxâan AI-generated summary of the call transcript is also provided, making it easier to review lengthy conversations.
The feature respects regional legal requirements, where different jurisdictions may have varying laws about one-party or all-party consent for call recording. Apple's implementation errs on the side of caution by making the announcement audible to all parties involved. This approach helps users comply with these laws by ensuring everyone is informed about the recording. Users in regions that allow recording without notifying all parties would still need to rely on external solutions, as Apple's system prioritizes legal compliance and ethical transparency.
In summary, iOS 18 ensures transparency in call recording by:
- Automatically announcing to all participants when recording starts and when new participants join.
- Displaying a persistent visual recording indicator on the phone screen.
- Storing recordings and transcripts locally with end-to-end encryption.
- Performing transcription on-device to protect user privacy.
- Allowing participants to end the call if they do not wish to be recorded.
- Complying with legal standards by notifying all call parties.