We previously explored the possibility of recording calls on Android with the app Automatic Call Recorder, but there are several compatibility details linked to certain decisions Google took behind the scenes that prevent proper recording on many devices. An interesting exercise is to find out how the open source world responds to these restrictions, and thanks to a tip from one of our readers, we came across Call Recorder, a free and open source call recorder available on the F-Droid store.
The first thing we must understand when recording calls on Android is that Google does not want you to do that. Some of the discussions go back to April 2016, and developers simply declare "Won't Fix" citing security and privacy concerns.
The problem is that there are legitimate uses for call recording. The previous link mentions examples such as journalism, medicine, and law, but the list is much longer. Unfortunately, Google's position hasn't changed much. However, that hasn't stopped some programmers from seeking alternative solutions. One of them is Call Recorder, free and open source call recorder created by the user "axet" on GitLab.
Call Recorder: A Free Call Recorder for Android
The goal of Call Recorder is to use one of the audio interfaces available on the device to record calls. Judging by the configuration options, the user has to experiment a bit. For example, in the "Recording Source" menu there are a total of eight options (one of them being automatic), and depending on the characteristics of your device, you might need to modify something here.
Another recommendation is to change the sample rate (16 kHz is the default, 8 kHz equals a phone call), and use a different encoding (.ogg is the base, .wav is more compatible but consumes extra space) in case there are issues. If despite these adjustments the app still doesn't work (say, one of the two call participants isn't recorded), then the device is not compatible with call recording.
In general terms, the more open the device configuration, the greater the chances of recording calls successfully. I'm referring to alternative ROMs like LineageOS or the old CyanogenMod. Call Recorder works with Android 2.3 or higher, a very useful fact for reusing old devices abandoned by Google. Download the APK from F-Droid, and give it a try!
(Editor's note: I extend my thanks to our reader "Nasher_87(ARG)" for sharing the app)
Download Call Recorder from F-Droid: Click here
