How to Screen Record on an iPhone or iPad

How to Screen Record on an iPhone


Sometimes, taking a screenshot just isn’t enough. Maybe you’re creating a tutorial, saving a video snippet, or sharing how to use a feature on your device. That’s where screen recording comes in handy. It’s quick, easy, and even lets you add audio if you want to explain what’s happening on the screen. Here’s how to do it step-by-step.

Setting Up Screen Recording

Ensure the Screen Recording option is available in your Control Center before starting.

Here’s how to check:

  1. Open Control Center:

    • For iPhones with Face ID, swipe down from the top-right corner of the screen.

    • On devices with a Home button, swipe up from the bottom of the screen.

  2. Look for the Recording Button: It looks like a dot with a circle around it.

  3. Add the Button (if missing):

    • Go to Settings > Control Center.

    • Look under "More Controls" to locate the Screen Recording option.

    • Tap the green + to add it to your Control Center.

How to Start Recording

After adding the Screen Recording shortcut, here’s what to do next:

  1. Open the Control Center.

  2. Press the Screen Recording icon (a circle inside a dot).

  3. A countdown of three seconds will start before the recording begins.

  4. During recording:

    • The button turns red.

    • On newer iPhones (with Dynamic Island), a red dot appears in the island.

    • On older iPhone models, a red bar will appear at the top while recording.

  5. Stop the recording by tapping the red bar, dot, or highlighted section.

Recording with Audio

Thinking of including your voice in the screen recording? It’s simple:

  1. Open the Control Center.

  2. Long-press the Screen Recording button.

  3. Tap the Microphone icon to enable audio.

  4. Start recording as usual. To disable the microphone, press and hold the icon again, then select the microphone option.

Saving and Sharing Your Recording

After stopping the recording, the video automatically saves to your Photos app. You can:

  • Watch your recording by opening the Photos app and locating it in the Recents or Videos album.

  • Edit it: Use the built-in editing tools in Photos or a third-party app.

  • Share it: Send it via messaging apps, email, or upload to social media.

FAQs About Screen Recording

1. Do I need to enable Screen Recording first?

Yes, you must add it to your Control Center before using it.

2. Can older iPhones screen record?

Yes, but the way to access Control Center depends on the model. Older iPhones require you to swipe up instead of down.

3. Can I record with audio?

Absolutely! Just turn on the microphone in the Screen Recording options.

4. Can I highlight touches during the recording?

No, iPhones don’t show touches by default. However, you can use third-party apps for this feature.

5. Where do recordings save?

They’re saved in the Photos app under Recents or Videos.

6. Can I edit recordings?

Yes, use the Photos app or download a video editor from the App Store.

7. How long can I record?

You can record as long as you have storage space on your iPhone or iPad.

8. Can I share recordings?

Yes, share via email, messaging apps, or social media directly from the Photos app.

Screen recording is a handy tool to save and share what’s on your screen. Whether it’s a quick tutorial or a fun video, you can now capture it all with ease!

Comments