The recent beta release of iPadOS 26 brings much-anticipated enhancements to audio recording capabilities on the iPad, transforming what was once a significant drawback into a major asset. While some critics argue that these changes come too late, the introduction of the Local Capture feature is nonetheless a welcome upgrade. Previously, the iPad’s restrictive security protocols limited users to running only one app at a time, making simultaneous phone calls and audio recording impossible.
While there may have been privacy and technical reasons for this limitation, many felt it was simply a matter of Apple’s design choices. This restriction hindered podcasters who might typically record separate audio tracks for easier editing. Now, with the introduction of Local Capture, iPad users can record audio independently through various sources including the iPad’s integrated microphones, AirPods, or external microphones connected via USB.
To use this feature, users must first enable Local Capture in the Control Center. Setting up Local Capture involves a few steps: accessing Control Center, adding the control, and saving your setup. Once it’s activated, recording becomes straightforward—just tap the Local Capture button to start recording when you are ready.
However, some aspects of the current beta could use refinement. For instance, users are limited to saving recordings in the Downloads folder of the Files app without the ability to change the location. Additionally, the visibility of the Start Recording button could be improved.
While Local Capture records only the user’s side of a conversation during calls—including FaceTime—this feature obviates potential privacy concerns from recording others. Users receive a clean audio track, ideal for podcast production, which can be easily accessed after the call ends. To wrap up, iPad users now have a powerful tool for audio recording that meets a significant need, even as the beta stage suggests room for improvement.
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