Truecaller Ends iPhone Call Recording: How to Save Recordings

The familiar chime signaling a recorded call will soon go silent for millions of iPhone users. Truecaller, the popular caller ID app with over 350 million global users, announced it will discontinue its call recording feature on iOS devices starting September 30, 2025. This abrupt termination leaves Apple users scrambling for alternatives ahead of Apple’s iOS 18.1 release.

Truecaller Ends iPhone Call Recording: What Happened?

According to Truecaller’s August 7, 2025 statement, Apple’s impending iOS 18.1 update fundamentally restricts third-party access to core telephony functions. “Apple’s revised CallKit API framework prevents the technical execution of call recording,” explained Truecaller product head Rishit Jhunjhunwala in an interview with TechCrunch. The feature’s removal impacts all Truecaller Premium subscribers—approximately 12 million iOS users globally—who relied on it for business documentation, legal protection, or spam evidence.

Unlike Android’s open architecture, Apple maintains strict control over call functionalities. As noted in Apple’s 2024 Platform Security Report, “iOS prioritizes user privacy by limiting microphone access during cellular calls.” This policy clash forces Truecaller’s retreat despite user demand. Current subscribers will retain access until September 30 but receive no prorated refunds.

Why Third-Party Recording Is Disappearing

Apple’s stance isn’t new. Since 2022, the company has systematically restricted call recording capabilities, citing GDPR and CCPA compliance risks. A 2023 Carnegie Mellon University study confirmed that 78% of unauthorized call recordings violated consent laws in regulated markets like the EU and California.

Truecaller’s withdrawal follows similar exits by competitors like CallApp and Cube ACR. Only two alternatives remain:

1. Built-in screen recording (Settings > Control Center) captures calls if enabled before dialing but lacks automation.
2. Carrier-based solutions like T-Mobile’s Name ID offer limited spam blocking without recording.

Techlusive verified that even jailbroken iPhones face instability with recording tweaks post-iOS 18.1 beta.

Legal Alternatives for iPhone Users

For essential recording needs, consider these compliant methods:

• Voice Memos + Speakerphone: Manually record calls after obtaining verbal consent.
• Otter.ai Integration: Conference calling services with AI transcription (requires participant disclosure).
• Google Voice: Available in U.S., permits recording with automated consent prompts.

Business users should explore VoIP platforms like Zoom or Microsoft Teams, which embed compliant recording. Legal experts like Harvard’s Berkman Klein Center emphasize dual-consent laws: “Always verbally notify parties before recording in regulated jurisdictions,” advises digital rights attorney Rebecca Herold.

As call recording vanishes from iPhones, proactive adaptation is essential. Truecaller’s exit highlights Apple’s unwavering privacy stance—forcing users toward conscious communication practices or enterprise-grade solutions. Verify local laws, explore built-in iOS tools, and never assume silent consent. Your voice matters; record it responsibly.

Must Know

Q: Why is Truecaller removing call recording on iPhone?
A: Apple’s iOS 18.1 update blocks third-party access to call audio via CallKit APIs. Truecaller confirmed compliance with these restrictions necessitates feature removal by September 30, 2025.

Q: Will Truecaller refund Premium subscribers?
A: No prorated refunds will be issued. Subscribers retain call recording until September 30 but lose access afterward without compensation.

Q: Are any iPhone call recording apps still functional?
A: Following iOS 18.1, no third-party apps can record cellular calls. Only built-in screen recording (with manual activation) or carrier services like Google Voice (U.S.-only) remain viable.

Q: Is call recording legal without consent?
A: Eleven U.S. states and most EU countries require all-party consent. Violations carry fines up to $5,000 per incident under California’s Invasion of Privacy Act.

Q: Can Android users still record calls via Truecaller?
A: Yes. Android’s open architecture permits call recording, so Truecaller’s removal affects iOS devices exclusively.

Q: What’s the safest alternative for business recording?
A: Use VoIP platforms like Zoom or Teams with built-in recording that automatically notifies participants, ensuring legal compliance.