Recording calls on Android smartphones has always been tricky. Over the past few years, it’s gotten even harder. Google keeps adding strict rules, especially around apps that use Accessibility permissions. Because of that, many call recording apps no longer work well. Users often install one, only to realize it only records their voice—not the person on the other end.
Besides the technical issues, there are legal concerns you must take seriously. In many countries, like Greece, recording calls without consent is against the law. Privacy rules like the GDPR make it clear: you need permission before recording anyone. Websites like ZDNet have tested what still works and highlight two methods that Android users can rely on. Let’s look at them.
Method 1: Call Recorder – Cuber ARC App
Leading the few remaining effective solutions is the Call Recorder – Cuber ARC, available on Google Play Store. Unlike many alternatives, this app has found ways to bypass Google’s ever-tightening restrictions and still supports recording both sides of a phone call.
Setting up this app, however, demands attention to detail. It requires specific Accessibility permissions to function correctly. Users must carefully follow the provided setup instructions to ensure the app records the conversation in full. Any oversight during setup could lead to incomplete or non-functional recordings. The app operates on a subscription model but offers a free trial period, allowing you to verify its effectiveness before committing.
Keep in mind: Apps that fail to obtain the required permissions will only capture your voice, not your contact’s.
Method 2: Using a Second Device
The second method is as old-school as it gets—but it works. You put your Android phone on speaker and use a second device to record. That could be another phone, a tablet, or even a digital recorder. This way, you don’t rely on any app or Google policy. It’s simple, direct, and foolproof.
Is Recording Calls Legal?
It’s critical to understand the legal framework around call recording. In many jurisdictions, including EU countries, recording a call without the other person’s explicit consent is illegal. Google’s own Phone and Voice apps include built-in call recording features, but these automatically notify all participants at the start of the recording. This ensures compliance with privacy laws, giving participants the option to decline if they don’t want the call recorded.
Alternative: VoIP Platforms
If you need to record work calls or meetings, there’s another way. Services like Zoom and Microsoft Teams include built-in recording features. They let everyone know the session is being recorded from the start. These platforms are great for business calls where privacy rules need to be followed.
Conclusion
Recording calls on Android in 2025 is more complicated than before, but it’s still doable. Whether you choose the Cuber ARC app, a second device, or a VoIP platform, always stay within the law. Getting consent first isn’t just polite—it keeps you out of trouble.
