Recording podcasts with FaceTime
Forget expensive microphones and recording software — iOS 18 just turned FaceTime into your personal podcast studio. Here’s how to get started.
Starting a podcast can feel intimidating, especially if you don’t have professional gear. FaceTime’s built-in recording tools make it easy to capture high-quality audio and video conversations, even if you’re new to podcasting.
Before iPadOS 18, recording podcasts on an iPad was challenging due to the system’s limitation on simultaneous app access to the microphone. This limitation prevented recording during FaceTime or Skype calls.
Podcasters resorted to complex setups with external audio interfaces or separate recording devices to capture both their audio and co-hosts’. However, iPadOS 18 simplifies podcasting.
While it’s not perfect, Apple’s new feature is probably the easiest way I’ve found to record decent-quality podcasts. The best part is that it’s built right into your iPhone and iPad.
Setting up to record podcasts
First, a heads-up — if you’re in the EU or certain Middle Eastern countries, you might not see this feature yet. Apple’s still working through some privacy regulations there.
FaceTime controls on iPad
Screen Recording can capture the video and audio of a FaceTime call. However, the built-in tool in FaceTime offers perks like automatic transcriptions and organized storage in the Notes app, but it won’t save video.
- Open the FaceTime app and start a one-on-one call for an audio-only recording.
- Hit the Record button during the conversation. Both you and your guest will hear a quick notification letting you know the recording has started.
- When you’re done, tap the button again or end the call.
- To include video, add Screen Recording to Control Center in Settings, then swipe down, tap the Screen Recording button, and start recording before your call.
Screen Recording
Your recordings will be stored in the Call Recordings folder within the Notes app. Meanwhile, video recordings will be saved in the Photos app for easy access.
Tips for better audio quality
A great podcast starts with great audio. While FaceTime makes recording easy, a few adjustments can make your sound more professional. Poor audio can distract listeners, no matter how good your content is.
- Use a dedicated mic with your iPhone or iPad. Even an entry-level USB or lavalier mic can drastically improve sound quality.
- Minimize background noise and echoes by recording in a quiet room. Adding rugs or curtains can help absorb sound.
- Before recording, take a few minutes to test your setup with your guest. Adjust mic placement and volume as needed.
FaceTime also includes a Voice Isolation feature to reduce background noise and prioritize your voice.
- Swipe down from the top-right corner of the screen to open Control Center.
- Tap the Mic Mode button (it looks like a microphone).
- Select Voice Isolation.
Make sure to test this feature during a trial recording to confirm it works as expected. You don’t want to finish a podcast only to find out that something didn’t work correctly.
Using transcripts to streamline editing
One of FaceTime’s features is its built-in transcription tool. After your recording ends, you’ll find a transcript in the Notes app alongside your audio or video file. This tool automatically identifies speakers and timestamps their comments, making it easy to create show notes, summaries, or captions.
- Open the Notes app and head to the Call Recordings folder.
- Select your recording and tap Transcript.
- Copy, search, or edit the text directly in Notes to refine your content.
Transcriptions not only save time but also make it easier to share key highlights from your podcast episodes.
FaceTime’s recording tools make podcasting more accessible than ever. From capturing high-quality audio to providing ready-made transcripts, iOS 18 equips you with essential tools on your iPhone or iPad.
While it’s not a replacement for a full studio setup, it’s an option for beginners or anyone looking to record a podcast without overcomplicating things.