Apple’s iOS 18 brings a range of new features and updates, but many iPhone users have noticed an issue with call recording not working. Whether you rely on call recording for business or personal use, this can be frustrating. If you’re experiencing problems with call recording on iOS 18, don’t worry! This article will walk you through the reasons behind the issue and provide effective solutions to get it working again.
Why Call Recording Might Not Work on iOS 18

Before we dive into solutions, it’s essential to understand why call recording may not function as expected on iPhones running iOS 18:
- Legal Restrictions: In many regions, call recording is heavily regulated, or even illegal, which may prevent the feature from working natively or through apps. Apple complies with local laws, so if you’re in a restricted region, call recording may be blocked.
- App Compatibility Issues: Third-party call recording apps might not yet be fully compatible with iOS 18. Many apps require updates to function properly with the latest iOS version.
- Privacy Settings: iOS 18 includes enhanced privacy features, which may prevent call recording apps from accessing your microphone or phone calls if permissions are not properly configured.
- Software Bugs or Glitches: As with any major software update, iOS 18 may introduce minor bugs or glitches that could affect call recording functionality.
Now that we’ve explored the potential causes, let’s go through the steps you can take to fix call recording issues on iOS 18.
How to Fix iOS 18 Call Recording Not Working on iPhone
Step to fix call recording Issues on iOS 18:
Method 1: Check Legal and Regional Restrictions
In many regions, call recording is heavily regulated or outright prohibited by law. Apple complies with these legal requirements, which may prevent the feature from working.
- How to check: Search online to find out whether call recording is legally allowed in your country.
- Alternative solution: If call recording is not permitted, you may need to use transcription services or take notes manually during important calls.
Method 2: Enable Call Recording in Settings
If call recording isn’t working, it’s essential to check whether the feature is enabled in the Settings app. By default, iOS 18.1 should have this feature turned on, but it’s possible that it was disabled by accident.
- Steps to Enable Call Recording:
- Open the
Settings
app on your iPhone. - Scroll down and tap on
Apps
. - Use the search bar or browse through the list to find the
Phone
app. - Tap on
Call Recording
. - Ensure the Call Recording toggle is turned on.
- Open the
After enabling this, try recording calls to see if the problem is resolved.
Method 3: Start Call Recording During Calls
Even if you’ve enabled call recording in the settings, it won’t automatically start during calls. You’ll need to manually initiate the recording.
Steps to Record a Call:
- Open the
Phone
app and make a call. - Once the call is connected, tap on the small
Record
button located in the top left corner of the call screen. - A prompt will appear saying, “This call will be recorded,” and the other person will be notified that the call is being recorded.
- Tap the
Stop
button when you want to end the recording. - You can find transcripts of recorded calls by visiting the
Notes
app and navigating to theCall Recordings
folder.
Method 4: Update or Reinstall Call Recording Apps
If you’re using a third-party app to record calls, it may not be fully compatible with iOS 18 yet. Developers frequently update apps to match the latest iOS versions.
- Steps to Update or Reinstall:
- Open the App Store.
- Search for the call recording app you’re using.
- Check for updates. If an update is available, install it.
- If there’s no update, try uninstalling and reinstalling the app to refresh its compatibility.
- Recommended Apps: Ensure that you’re using a reliable and trusted app for call recording. Some popular options include Rev Call Recorder, TapeACall, and Google Voice.
Method 5: Check App Permissions and Settings
It’s possible that the call recording app itself has some settings that need to be adjusted. Double-check the app’s internal settings to ensure everything is configured correctly.
- Steps to Check Permissions:
- Open the call recording app.
- Go to the settings or preferences section within the app.
- Ensure call recording is enabled, and check if there are any specific permissions the app needs to function.
Resetting app permissions and settings can sometimes clear up issues that prevent it from working.
Method 6: Adjust iOS Privacy Settings
In some cases, iOS 18’s privacy settings might be blocking the app from accessing your microphone or phone calls. You need to ensure the app has the necessary permissions.
- Steps to Adjust Privacy Settings:
- Go to
Settings
on your iPhone. - Scroll down and tap
Privacy
. - Select
Microphone
and make sure the toggle for the call recording app is turned on. - Go back to
Settings
->Privacy
, and tapCall Recording App
under “Permissions” to allow access to your phone calls.
- Go to
- Once permissions are properly set, try using the app again to see if the issue is resolved.
Method 7: Use a Call Recording Service
If call recording apps aren’t working or compatible with your iPhone, you might want to consider using a third-party call recording service. These services often record calls on their end, rather than relying on the iPhone’s software.
- How to Use a Service: Sign up for a call recording service such as Rev or Recordator, and follow their instructions to record calls through their platform.
- Pros and Cons: While services may offer reliable call recording, they usually charge a fee. However, they can be a good alternative if apps aren’t working.
Method 8: Restart Your iPhone or Update iOS
A simple restart can resolve many software-related issues, including call recording problems. Additionally, checking for the latest iOS updates may fix bugs that prevent call recording from functioning properly.
- How to Restart Your iPhone:
- Hold down the power button until the “Slide to Power Off” option appears.
- Slide to power off your iPhone, wait a few seconds, and then turn it back on.
- How to Check for iOS Updates:
- Go to
Settings
. - Tap
General
->Software Update
. - If there’s an update available, tap “Download and Install.”
- Go to
Method 9: Use Third-Party Hardware for Call Recording
If all else fails, using external hardware for call recording could be a reliable solution. Call recording hardware connects to your phone and records conversations directly.
These devices typically plug into the headphone jack or connect via Bluetooth and record calls independently of the iPhone’s software.
Recommended Products: Devices like the RecorderGear PR200 and Esonic Cell Phone Call Recorder are good options for hardware-based call recording.
Though this involves an additional purchase, it ensures reliable call recording without relying on apps or software settings.
Conclusion
Call recording issues on iOS 18 can stem from a variety of causes, from regional restrictions to app compatibility and privacy settings. By following the methods outlined in this guide, you should be able to troubleshoot and resolve call recording not working on your iPhone. If you’re still experiencing problems, consider using external hardware or a third-party service as an alternative.
Did these solutions work for you? Let us know in the comments, and share this guide with friends who may be facing similar issues with call recording on iOS 18!