Truecaller is stepping back from its call recording feature on iOS, just over two years since it was introduced. The Swedish company is redirecting its focus to its core abilities, specifically combating spam calls.
As of September 30, iPhone users will no longer have access to Truecaller’s call recording. However, users can download their existing recordings, share them via email or messaging apps, or store them in iCloud to retain access after the feature is removed.
Nakul Kabra, Truecaller’s head of iOS, explained that the decision was made to concentrate on enhancing their Live Caller ID and automated spam blocking features.
Introduced to paying subscribers in June 2023, call recording was also brought back to Android, with added support for native call transcription. These features debuted in India last year. While recording is straightforward on Android, iOS presents challenges because Apple’s system doesn’t allow third-party apps to record calls naturally. Truecaller overcame this by using a recording line that merges calls, a method that raises both costs and complexity. These hurdles led to the decision to discontinue the feature.
A support page is available to assist users during the transition.
This move follows Apple’s introduction of native call recording and transcriptions with an iOS 18.1 update. Apple’s solution doesn’t require a recording line and uses Apple Intelligence for transcriptions, simplifying the process for users.
Initially, Truecaller introduced call recording to entice iPhone users to upgrade, as the caller ID feature is limited in the free tier. Premium users benefit from real-time caller ID, advanced spam blocking, Siri shortcuts, incognito mode, and more.
Truecaller has around 3 million subscribers globally, with iOS contributing to 44% of its premium revenue, according to their recent financial reports.
