Why Voice Recording Apps Don’t Work on Phones Anymore: When Journalists Lose Access to a Vital Tool

Tehran - BORNA - With the advancement of technology and the widespread use of smartphones, users particularly reporters have relied on various apps to record phone conversations. These tools are considered critical in news reporting, investigative journalism, and even legal documentation. However, in recent years, many of these apps have stopped functioning properly due to technical and security-related restrictions. This issue has emerged not only in Iran but also across many countries, creating serious challenges for journalists and other professionals.

Why Are Call Recording Apps No Longer Functional?

Security and Privacy Restrictions

Major tech companies like Google and Apple have tightened restrictions on third-party app access to call data to protect user privacy. For instance, since 2022, Google has banned the use of call recording APIs on apps distributed via the Google Play Store. Similarly, in iOS 18.1, many users have reported that call recording functionality has been disabled.

Legal Restrictions in Various Countries

In many countries including the United States, the UK, Canada, and the UAE recording phone calls is restricted due to privacy laws and data protection regulations. As a result, smartphone manufacturers have disabled this functionality on certain devices to comply with legal frameworks.
Software Updates and Technical Issues

Sometimes, system updates can interfere with the performance of call recording apps. Many users report that after updating to newer versions of iOS or Android, their recording apps no longer work as expected.

The Impact of Inaccessible Call Recording on Journalists

Reduced Accuracy in Documentation

For journalists, call recording is a vital tool for capturing accurate information. Investigative reports and news features often rely on phone conversations that need to be fully and precisely documented. Without the ability to record, crucial information can be lost, resulting in less accurate reporting.

Increased Risk of Misunderstandings

Failing to record conversations can lead to misunderstandings or misrepresentation of what was said. This is especially critical in sensitive interviews, where journalists must ensure that every word is recorded accurately and without distortion.

Legal Complications

When legal issues arise or documentation is needed for verification, journalists often rely on call recordings as evidence. If these calls haven’t been recorded, it can weaken their legal position and credibility.

Dependence on Unreliable Methods

Without functional apps, journalists may resort to using external recording devices or unofficial apps. These alternatives often come with poor audio quality and potential security risks, making them less effective and potentially unsafe.

Why Journalists Need Call Recording Apps

Precise Documentation of Information

Call recording helps journalists capture detailed information from interviews and conversations. These recordings serve as accurate references during the writing and editing process, reducing the risk of factual errors.

Ensuring Transparency and Credibility

Recording calls adds a layer of transparency to journalistic practices. It ensures that the information presented in stories remains true to the original source and is free of distortion.

Legal Protection

In disputes or legal challenges, recorded calls can act as crucial evidence, supporting journalists against false accusations or misinterpretation of facts.

Quick Access to Sources and Details

Having access to past conversations helps journalists quickly retrieve specific details for future reports. It streamlines their workflow and ensures that important insights are not lost.

The inability to use call recording apps caused by a mix of legal, technical, and security-related factors poses a significant challenge for journalists. Nonetheless, with alternative tools and adaptive strategies, reporters can continue to work efficiently while maintaining the accuracy and integrity of their reporting. In today’s fast-paced media environment, the ability to record calls remains a necessary tool for information gathering and journalistic transparency.

About the author: Fateme Moradkhani covers technology, surveillance, and AI ethics for Borna News Agency, with a focus on global cyber power and digital militarization.

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