Audio recording applications are available for both Apple and Android based smart phones ( specific
details about these apps follow ). They are simple to use and can produce very usable results under the
right conditions. It is important that you follow these simple steps to maximize the quality and
intelligibility of your recording.
1: THE most important thing to remember is to position the phone close to the interviewee. “Close”
means 6-18 inches maximum from the speakers mouth. This is not negotiable and might require some
initiative to situate the device appropriately. Consider using a book to rest the phone on, or even hand-
holding the device like a microphone pointed at the subject (perhaps the interviewee can hold it? ).
2: Choose a good location. Indoors is almost always best. Avoid rooms which are adjacent to busy
roads and spaces with hard, uncovered surfaces which ‘echo’( bathrooms, kitchens, hallways etc).
Usually a soft furnished sitting room ( couch, curtains, carpet etc ) will work fine.
3: Minimize background noise. Close windows and doors, avoid fans and refrigerators, turn off TV’s ,
background music, aquariums and water features. Relocate rambunctious pets. Wait for exterior noises
(mowers, weed whackers, hammering etc ) to finish or try to have them stopped.
4: Tap “Record” on your device- don’t forget !!
Recording Applications For Your Device
iOS ( iPhones)
Apple App Store-“Voice Memos”
The app “Voice Memos” is pre-installed with all versions of the iPhone / iPad running iOS
Version 10 or greater. If it is not installed on your iPhone it can be downloaded from the Apple App Store
for free.
Launch the app and simply tap the red record button to start recording.