Apple Releases iOS 18.1 with Call Recording Feature for the First Time on iPhone
iOS 18.1 introduces several significant updates, including call recording and the Apple Intelligence feature.
The first major update to iOS 18 became available for download on the evening of October 28, more than a month after the initial release of the operating system. The new version supports devices released from 2018 onwards, such as the iPhone XS, iPhone XR, and newer models.
With an upgrade size of nearly 2 GB from iOS 18.0.1, iOS 18.1 adds features Apple previewed at WWDC in June. Most notably, users can now record calls directly on iPhone for the first time.
Apple states that the Call Recording feature allows users to capture audio from phone or FaceTime calls directly. A recording button will appear once the other party answers, and recording will begin after a three-second countdown. An automatic notification will be played to inform all parties that the call is being recorded. The audio is then saved in the Notes app.
The recording bar appears during calls when the user presses the button, available from iOS 18.1
A minor camera adjustment in iPhone 16 models adds a quick switch to the TrueDepth front camera. The iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max also add support for capturing and recording spatial video and photos.
When iOS 18 launched with a redesigned control center, many users expressed frustration over needing additional steps to quickly access Wi-Fi and Bluetooth controls. This has been addressed in iOS 18.1, where these options are separated as individual buttons and can be customized to suit user preferences.
Additionally, the update includes various bug fixes, such as addressing video stuttering in 4K 60 fps recording, restart issues on iPhone 16 and 16 Pro models, and problems unlocking vehicles with a phone.
For AirPods users, from AirPods Pro 2 onward, iOS 18.1 also brings adjustments such as hearing check and assistive listening.
iOS 18.1 also introduces the initial features of Apple Intelligence, though these are currently exclusive to the iPhone 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max, and iPhone 16 series. The language capabilities of Apple Intelligence are currently only available in U.S. English, with a Vietnamese version expected next year.
To upgrade, users can go to Settings > General > Software Update on their iPhone. Before updating, it’s recommended to back up the device, plug it in or charge it fully, and ensure a stable Wi-Fi connection.