Share or Save Voicemail on iPhone

Saving Voicemails on iPhone: A Simplified Process

Prior to iOS 9, preserving a voicemail required utilizing third-party applications and navigating a complex procedure. Alternatively, users were forced to employ an external recording device. iOS 9 streamlined this process by integrating a share sheet directly within the voicemail interface.

It’s important to note that Visual Voicemail must be enabled for this functionality to operate. If you access your messages by dialing a specific number, this feature will not be available to you.

Why Save Voicemails?

There are several compelling reasons to save voicemail messages. Recently, two distinct scenarios highlighted the value of this capability. One involved retaining a final message from a departed family member, providing a cherished keepsake and a backup copy.

The other situation was more practical. A message intended for a son was left on the author’s phone. Rather than relaying the content, the voicemail was directly sent to him via text message for independent listening.

How to Save a Voicemail

Begin by simply selecting the voicemail message you wish to preserve. The Share button will be visible adjacent to the Info button. Tap the Share button to proceed.

The share sheet, familiar from other iOS functions, presents a list of applications with which you can share the voicemail. This includes native apps such as Messages, Notes, and Mail. Select the desired application to share the message.

If the application you require is not immediately visible, scroll to the right along the top row and tap More. This will reveal a comprehensive list of available activities.

Enable the desired activities to add them to the main share menu for future use.

File Format and Final Thoughts

Shared voicemails are saved in the .M4A file format. This widely supported standard ensures compatibility for playback and conversion using various applications.

This is a remarkably straightforward feature, but it can prove invaluable when you need to preserve important or amusing voicemails. It offers a convenient way to archive messages for future reference or enjoyment.