Apple’s iOS 18.1 Beta introduces Call Recording with transcription; available for select users

In a major update for tech enthusiasts, Apple has just released the iOS 18.1 Beta build, which is generating significant buzz. This update introduces some long-awaited features to iPhones and iPads, including AI-powered features and, most notably, call recording.

The call recording feature, teased by Apple at its Worldwide Developers Conference in June, is now available for developers to preview in the Beta build. Additionally, iOS 18.1 Beta debuts Apple's own suite of AI features, under the brand 'Apple Intelligence'.

Until now, Apple devices have been unable to record calls, and third-party apps couldn't offer this functionality either, largely due to legal restrictions in multiple countries and several U.S. states. Apple has long prioritised privacy, which has been a key reason behind the absence of a call recording feature.

However, with the iOS 18.1 Beta build, this feature is finally being introduced to Apple devices. To address legal and ethical concerns, whenever a call recording is initiated, both parties will hear an automated message stating, "Your call is now being recorded." This measure ensures transparency and compliance with legal requirements.

Additionally, leveraging the power of AI, devices running iOS 18.1 Beta can now transcribe conversations during calls, further enhancing the usability and accessibility of the feature.

Notably, the iOS 18.1 Beta is currently available only to developers and users enrolled in Apple's Beta program. Beta builds are known to feature unfinished elements and can come with various bugs and glitches. Therefore, if you're a regular user, it’s advisable to hold off on upgrading to the Beta version until the official public release.

With the growing presence of AI features in various gadgets, the tech world has been eagerly anticipating Apple's entry into the AI arena. The wait is finally over with the release of iOS 18.1 Beta, introducing 'Apple Intelligence.' This suite of AI-powered tools aims to simplify and enhance the user experience on Apple devices.

Key features include an updated Siri design, email summaries in the Mail app, natural language search in Photos, AI transcription, and more. These innovations not only offer new capabilities but also promise a more fluid and intuitive OS interface.

It's worth noting that Apple Intelligence will not be available on the basic iPhone 15 models from last year. This feature is currently exclusive to the 15 Pro variants in the iOS 18.1 Beta and is expected to remain a Pro-exclusive feature upon the public release.

The public release of iOS 18.1 is expected in November this year, with availability in India anticipated around the same time.