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Can Otter AI record phone calls?
Short answer
Not directly. Otter says Apple and Google stop third-party apps recording phone calls, so a live Otter recording pauses when a call starts. Instead, record the call with your phone's built-in recorder, then share the audio file to Otter to transcribe and summarise it. In the UK, tell the other person you're recording and why.
How to do it
iPhone: use Apple's built-in call recording. When the call ends, open the recording in the Notes app, choose Share Audio, then pick Otter and import it.
Android: use your phone's built-in call recorder if it has one, then share the file to Otter.
Otter then transcribes the call, tags speakers and writes a summary.
UK rules on recording calls
Otter's help page says recording calls is subject to local laws and you're responsible for getting any permissions you need. For a UK business:
- Tell callers. The ICO's guidance says to tell people calls are recorded and why, ideally at the start.
- Have a purpose, such as keeping an accurate record of what was agreed on a job.
- Keep it secure and delete it when you no longer need it.
See is Otter AI GDPR compliant? for what Otter does with recordings.
A better fit for trades?
If what you really want is calls answered and noted while you're on a job, an AI receptionist may suit you better. See what is an AI receptionist? and how to answer calls while on a job.
Related questions
Can Otter transcribe a phone call?
Yes, once you've recorded it on your phone and imported the audio file.
Can Otter join Zoom or Teams calls?
Yes, Otter's assistant can join video meetings. Phone calls are the exception.
Sources
Checked 17 October 2026. Rules and prices change, so check the source before you rely on it. This is general information, not legal, tax or financial advice.
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- Can AI make and answer phone calls?
- Can an AI receptionist take restaurant bookings?
- Can I use ChatGPT for customer service?
- Does Gemini have voice chat like ChatGPT?
- Does Otter AI work with Teams, Zoom and Google Meet?
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