"Putting" screen record on your iPhone used to mean one place: Control Center. On iOS 18 and later there are three. Here's how to set up each.
Put it in Control Center
- Swipe down from the top-right corner.
- Tap + in the top-left corner.
- Tap Add a Control, search Screen Recording, and tap it.
- Drag it to the first page so it's easy to reach.
On iOS 17 or earlier: Settings > Control Center, then tap + next to Screen Recording.
Put it on the Lock Screen
The two buttons at the bottom of the Lock Screen (usually flashlight and camera) can be swapped on iOS 18 and later:
- Touch and hold the Lock Screen and tap Customize.
- Tap the Lock Screen option.
- Tap the minus on one of the bottom controls.
- Tap + and choose Screen Recording.
- Tap Done.
Now you can start recording without unlocking the phone. Handy for quickly capturing something you're about to show.
Put it on the Action button
On iPhones with an Action button:
- Open Settings > Action Button.
- Swipe to Controls.
- Choose Screen Recording.
Press and hold the Action button to start recording.
Stopping works the same everywhere
Tap the red indicator at the top of the screen and tap Stop. The video is saved to Photos.
Which spot is best?
Control Center for most people. Add the Action button if you record a lot, like for testing apps or making tutorials. The Lock Screen is good if you often need to record in a hurry.
Where MobileStudio fits
Recording your own app? MobileStudio turns the clip into a polished, framed demo, right on your iPhone. Get MobileStudio.
Quick FAQ
Is screen record on the iPhone by default?
The feature is built in, but the button isn't always in Control Center by default.
Can I add it to my Home Screen?
Not as an app icon. Use Control Center, the Lock Screen, or the Action button.
