Recording a FaceTime call with audio has saved me countless times whether I’m keeping a record of an important conversation, preserving a heartfelt chat with family, or creating content for later.
You’ve probably been in a situation where you wished you had a copy of what was said. While Apple does make screen recording simple, getting both video and clear audio can take a few extra steps and a bit of know-how.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through exactly how I record FaceTime calls on my iPhone, iPad, and Mac, while also giving you the tools, tips, and legal considerations you should keep in mind before you hit record.
How To Record FaceTime Calls with Audio on iPhone and Mac
Method 1: Recording FaceTime Calls with Audio on iPhone
On iOS, the simplest way to record a FaceTime call with audio is by using Apple’s built-in Screen Recording tool.
First, you need to add the feature to your Control Center.
- Open Settings → Control Center
- Scroll down and tap the green + next to Screen Recording
Once that’s done, start your recording by swiping down from the top-right corner on Face ID iPhone's, or swiping up from the bottom on Touch ID models.
- Press and hold the Screen Recording icon (two circles)
- Tap the Microphone icon so it turns red
- Tap Start Recording, wait for the 3-second countdown, and open FaceTime
- When you’re finished, swipe back into the Control Center and tap the red recording button to stop. Your video will automatically be saved in the Photos app under “Screen Recordings.”
Keep in mind that iOS privacy restrictions may limit how clearly the other caller’s internal audio is captured. To improve clarity, use speaker mode and try to record in a quiet space to minimize background noise.
Method 2: Recording FaceTime Calls with Audio on Mac
If you want to record your FaceTime calls with audio on a Mac, QuickTime Player comes pre-installed and is really easy to use.
- Start by opening QuickTime Player from your Applications folder. Click File → New Screen Recording
- Click the arrow next to the record button and choose your audio input (I usually pick “Built-in Microphone”)
- When you’re ready to record, decide whether you want to capture your entire screen or just the FaceTime window and then, start your call.
QuickTime will record both the video and whatever comes through your microphone. When the conversation wraps up, hit the Stop icon in the menu bar and save your recording wherever you like.
Method 3: Third-Party Apps & External Devices
If you want studio-quality results, you can explore dedicated recording software for Mac or use an external recording device. Some third-party apps let you capture system audio directly, which is especially useful for podcasts, interviews, or professional calls.
My Pre-Recording Checklist (That Works for You Too)
Before you hit record, it’s smart to run through a quick checklist to make sure everything goes smoothly.
First, check your Control Center setup and make sure Screen Recording is added otherwise you’ll be scrambling to find it mid-call.
Next, double-check that your microphone is enabled; otherwise, your video will be completely silent, and no one wants that.
I always do a quick test run to make sure audio levels are good and everything is working properly, it’s a small step that saves a lot of headaches later.
And if you’re recording on your iPhone, switch to Speaker Mode; this makes it much easier to capture both sides of the conversation clearly.
Following these steps ensures your recording comes out clean and usable every time.
Saving & Editing FaceTime Recordings
Once you’ve finished recording, it’s time to save and organize your FaceTime videos. On an iPhone, your recordings will automatically appear in the Photos app, making them easy to find.
On a Mac, it helps to keep things tidy by saving them in a dedicated folder or uploading them to cloud storage so you can access them from anywhere.
For quick edits, the built-in trimming tools in Photos are perfect for snipping out any unwanted parts.
If you want something more polished, you can bring your recording into iMovie or Final Cut Pro for more advanced editing. And here’s a real game-changer for interviews or meetings: AI transcription tools.
They turn your FaceTime conversations into searchable text in minutes, making it super easy to find key points or create notes from your call.
FAQs About Recording FaceTime with Audio
Can you record FaceTime with sound on iPhone 13?
Yes, you absolutely can. The key is to enable the microphone before you start recording. Swipe down to open the Control Center, tap the Screen Recording icon, and make sure the microphone is turned on.
How do you record FaceTime on an iPad?
Recording FaceTime on an iPad works the same way as on an iPhone. First, add Screen Recording to your Control Center if it isn’t already there. Then, before you start the call, make sure to enable the microphone so audio from both sides is captured. When you’re ready, tap record, and your FaceTime session will be saved automatically once you stop.
Why is there no sound in my FaceTime recording?
If your recording comes out silent, the most common culprit is forgetting to enable the microphone. Double-check that it’s on before you start. Other potential issues include privacy settings that block apps from using the mic or a hardware issue with your device’s microphone. Running a quick test recording can help you pinpoint the problem before your important call.
Final Thoughts
Once you know the process, recording a FaceTime call with audio is straightforward, whether you’re using your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
The key is to plan ahead: enable the microphone, choose the right setup, and always get permission from everyone on the call.
For casual recordings, Apple’s built-in tools get the job done. But if you need crystal-clear professional audio, you might want to explore third-party apps or external devices.
