iPadOS 26: Assessing the Updated Local Capture Functionality for Podcasting

iPadOS 26: Assessing the Updated Local Capture Functionality for Podcasting

iPadOS 26: Assessing the Updated Local Capture Functionality for Podcasting


# Apple’s iPadOS 26: A Revolutionary Advancement for Podcasters

For creators or podcasters, the recent revelation at WWDC25 regarding integrated local audio and video recording during calls in iPadOS 26 is sure to pique your interest. This capability has the potential to transform how podcasters make use of their iPads, simplifying remote recording and enhancing efficiency.

## The Present Challenges

Currently, iOS and iPadOS do not permit users to run a secondary app in the background to record local audio while engaged in a call. This constraint has posed difficulties for podcasters attempting to utilize iPhones and iPads for remote recordings. Conventionally, each podcast participant would capture their own audio locally to guarantee high-quality tracks for post-production. With the current configuration, users had to pick between recording their voice or participating in a conference call, greatly limiting their choices.

## The New Feature: Local Media Capture

With the rollout of iPadOS 26, users will at last gain the capability to record their voice while on a conference call. Nonetheless, this feature comes with certain limitations. Apple has chosen a privacy-centric strategy, meaning that simultaneous microphone access for multiple apps is not entirely permitted, contrary to what is available on a Mac. Instead, the new system feature, which can be accessed through Control Center, enables local audio and video capture solely during a call, ensuring that no other app is utilizing the microphone or camera at the same time. This setup prevents any possible abuse, as a recording indicator will be visible at the top of the screen during capture.

## Initial Reactions from Jason Snell

Prominent tech journalist Jason Snell, known for his podcasting endeavors on his iPad, rapidly put this new functionality to the test. He recorded an entire episode of the *Six Colors Podcast* with co-host Dan Moren, who participated remotely, using only iPads operating the first developer beta of iPadOS 26. The outcomes were remarkable, showcasing that the feature operates effortlessly and delivers high-quality audio.

For those keen to hear the results, Snell made this particular episode publicly accessible, highlighting the capabilities of the new functionality. The quality was so impressive that listeners would not have suspected it was recorded entirely on an iPad.

## A Refined Yet Developing Feature

Though it’s a first-developer-beta aspect, the implementation of local audio and video capture is notably stable already. Snell pointed out a few areas for enhancement, such as real-time audio level monitoring and gain adjustment controls for various microphones. However, these are improvements that Apple might perfect before the public rollout.

For podcasters and creators, this innovation could signal the end of toting around bulky equipment. With ongoing improvements, it may soon become feasible to depend solely on an iPad for podcasting, fostering greater mobility and ease.

## Conclusion

Apple’s unveiling of local audio and video capture in iPadOS 26 signifies a major advancement for podcasters and creators. By tackling prior restrictions and concentrating on user privacy, Apple is setting the stage for more flexible and efficient remote recording possibilities. As the feature progresses, it has the potential to reshape the podcasting landscape, simplifying the process for creators to generate high-quality content on the move.