How to record the iPhone screen with audio

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To record the iPhone screen with audio, you can use the built-in screen recording feature available in iOS. This feature allows you to capture both video and audio from your device, making it ideal for creating tutorials or sharing gameplay.

Easy7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before you start recording your iPhone screen with audio, ensure you meet the following requirements:
  • iPhone running iOS 11 or later (iPhone 5s and newer models are supported).
  • Sufficient storage space on your device to save the recording.
  • Access to the Control Center (swipe down from the top-right corner on iPhone X and later, or swipe up from the bottom on iPhone 8 and earlier).
  • Microphone access must be enabled for audio recording.

Method 1: Using the Built-in Screen Recording Feature

This method is the simplest and most direct way to record your iPhone screen with audio. It is recommended for most users.
  • Step 1: Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
  • Step 2: Tap on 'Control Center'.
  • Step 3: Scroll down and tap the green '+' icon next to 'Screen Recording' to add it to your Control Center.
  • Step 4: Swipe down from the top-right corner (iPhone X and later) or swipe up from the bottom (iPhone 8 and earlier) to access the Control Center.
  • Step 5: Press and hold the 'Screen Recording' button (a circle within a circle).
  • Step 6: Tap the microphone icon to turn on audio recording (it should turn red).
  • Step 7: Tap 'Start Recording' to begin capturing your screen.
  • Step 8: To stop recording, tap the red status bar at the top of your screen and confirm by tapping 'Stop'.
  • Step 9: Your recording will be saved to the Photos app. Open Photos to verify the recording.

For iOS 15 and later

iOS 15 introduced some minor changes to the Control Center interface.
  • Step 1: Access Control Center as described above.
  • Step 2: The Screen Recording button now shows a countdown before starting the recording.

For iOS 14 and earlier

The steps remain largely the same, but ensure that your device is updated to at least iOS 11 to access the feature.
  • Step 1: Follow the same steps to access Control Center.
  • Step 2: The microphone toggle is available in the same location.

Method 2: Using QuickTime on a Mac

If you prefer to record your iPhone screen on a larger display or need more control over the recording, you can use QuickTime Player on a Mac.
  • Step 1: Connect your iPhone to your Mac using a Lightning cable.
  • Step 2: Open QuickTime Player on your Mac.
  • Step 3: Click 'File' in the menu bar, then select 'New Movie Recording'.
  • Step 4: Click the arrow next to the record button to select your iPhone as the camera source.
  • Step 5: To record audio, select your iPhone as the microphone source as well.
  • Step 6: Click the red record button to start recording your iPhone screen.
  • Step 7: To stop recording, click the stop button in QuickTime, then save your recording.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while recording your iPhone screen with audio, consider the following solutions:
  • Error: 'Screen Recording Failed' - Solution: Ensure you have enough storage space on your device.
  • Issue: No audio recorded - Fix: Make sure the microphone is enabled in the Screen Recording settings.
  • Problem: Screen recording is not showing in Control Center - Workaround: Restart your iPhone and check if the feature is enabled in Settings.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

For power users, here are some tips to enhance your screen recording experience:
  • Keyboard shortcut: Command + N in QuickTime - Opens a new movie recording window.
  • Hidden feature: Use the 'Screen Recording' toggle in the Control Center to quickly access recording settings.
  • Tip: Use a tripod or stand for your iPhone to stabilize the recording for better quality.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For the best recording quality, always use the built-in features of iOS as they are optimized for performance and compatibility.