Recording Cell Phone Calls - what are the options?

There are many compelling reasons for recording cell phone calls. Most of the options permit a conversation to be recorded as an MP3 that can subsequently be emailed between parties or stored on a hard drive for future reference.

Some examples of the tools available are listed here.

The main options for recording cell phone calls are as follows:

1. In-built Call Recording

Many current model cell phones and smartphones provide the ability to selectively record calls. Before looking any further into alternative options, dig out the manual that came with your cell phone or look up the specifications on the Web to see if call recording is listed.

2. Ugly but Cheap

In the event that your cell phone doesn't support a call recording feature, it maybe adequate to simply switch the phone to its external speaker and record the conversation by holding it next to a tape recorder or PC microphone.

3. Wireless Phone Recording Controller

A far more elegant approach to recording cell phone calls is to use a Wireless Phone Recording Controller from Radio Shack - part number 17-855.

Recording quality: clear and crisp.

At the time of writing it sells for US $3.97, which is extraordinarliy good value.

Calls can be recorded direct to a PC by plugging the unit into the MIC IN.

Recording and editing options include Sound Recorder (included with XP) and Audacity.

Compact and portable. It's a great accessory to have at hand.

4. The Rolls Royce Solution

The ultimate tool for recording cell phone conversations: Celltap from JK Audio.

Connections: the CellTap sits between the phone's 2.5mm jack and an ear piece or headset, which is required for use.

Audio output to tape, computer or powered speakers.

The CellTap is a rugged professional unit intended for a life time of use. It's favoured by journalists as it's no more bulky than a bunch of keys and just as rugged.

At the time of writing it sells for US $79.00

5. Telecommunications Recording Switch

The main argument for this style of service is that no equipment is required. They can be used at any time to record an outbound call. Inbound calls are less straighforward. Numerous organization sell this style of service.

To record an outbound call the user first dials a special number so the call can be routed through the recording service. Inbound calls can only be recorded when a specifically assigned number is called i.e. not the cell phone number.

A pre-paid call recording card is purchased that qualifies the owner to a quota of recorded minutes. It's a substantially more expensive route than either options 3 or 4 above. A typical cost is circa US $100 per 250 minutes of call recording.

The best value for money is undoubtedly a cell phone recording device. The Radio Shack 17-855 is perfectly serviceable and adequate, but personally I'm always impressed by a product that will obviously survive the rough and tumble of life and does not require batteries. Unless misplaced, I can see my CellTap recording cell phone calls for at least another 20 years.

See also: Cell Phone Recording Device Review

Disclaimer and Word of Caution about Recording Cell Phone Calls

There are an infinite number of reasons for recording cell phone calls. Whatever the reasons are it's essential to comply with the applicable laws.

It is illegal in some states to record a conversation without the consent of all parties to the conversation. Those parties may include the telephone companies. Check the laws in your area before using any two-way cell phone recording device.

From Recording Cell Phone Calls to Phone Recording Software

From Recording Cell Phone Calls to Business Phone Tools