As voice recognition continues to grow in popularity, device owners are gradually moving more toward speaking into their phones rather than typing. That means when you set a reminder to pick up milk on the way home or make a hair appointment, you’re more likely to pull up your phone’s voice memo app than type it into your Notes app.

But as valuable as the iPhone’s Voice Memos app is, it does have its limitations. If you want to record songs or interview someone for your podcast, you’ll need an app with more features.

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    Microphone in foreground with computer screen in background

    Voice Recorder HD ($2.99)

    Voice Recorder HD gives you control over your recordings, thanks to built-in audio-quality configuration tools.

    Voice Recorder HD best uses list

    You can run other apps on your phone while you’re recording, making it ideal for long recording sessions like class lectures. You can also add extra features for a fee, including audio trimming and converting high-quality files to M4A.

    Just Press Record ($4.99)

    You don’t always have advance warning when you need to record something. Just Press Record helps you capture recordings quickly, firing up via voice command or in a couple of taps.

    Just Press Record app on iPhone

    You can also record using your Apple Watch, then sync up the recording later. One of the best things about this app is the built-in ability to easily organize your recordings, whether you have them going into folders or saving them automatically to the cloud.

    Voice Recorder Lite (Free)

    If you’re looking for a no-cost option, Voice Recorder Lite should serve your purposes. You’ll get crystal-clear audio, editing, call interruption handling, and all the basic features you find in fee-based call recording apps.

    Voice Recorder Lite app on iPhone

    For features like uploading to Dropbox, emailing files, converting to mp3, and trimming recordings, you’ll need to upgrade to Voice Recorder Pro, which costs $3.99.

    Voice Recorder & Audio Editor (Free)

    With the free version of Voice Recorder & Audio Editor, you’ll get the standard features you see with other recording apps, including unlimited recordings and the ability to upload to apps like Dropbox and iCloud Drive.

    Voice Recorder & Audio Editor app

    However, the premium features set this app apart from the rest, especially the transcription software. For a one-time .99 purchase, you’ll get transcription, multiple audio formats, and password protection for your recordings. But a .99 monthly subscription will also allow you to record calls.

    Otter Voice Meeting Notes (Free)

    If you plan to record meetings on a regular basis, Otter Voice Meeting Notes is a handy tool to have around. Just press Record and Otter starts doing its thing, recording and transcribing in real-time.

    Otter Voice Meeting Notes app screen

    Once the meeting is finished, you’ll be able to share your notes with others on your team. Best of all, everything is stored in one convenient place for later reference.

    Voice Changer Plus (Free)

    If you want to have a little fun with your recordings, Voice Changer Plus is worth a look. Just pick a voice, tap Record, then start talking. When you’re finished speaking, you can play the clip you just recorded in a different voice.

    Voice Changer Plus app window

    Sound like a robot, mosquito, or Darth Vader himself, and you can speed up or slow down your voice to exaggerate the effects. There are 55 different voice options, and you can even layer multiple effects to create a more customized sound.

    By adding on-demand recording to your iOS device, you can boost productivity and avoid missing those precious audio moments. Whether you’re trying to capture your baby’s first words or the afternoon brainstorming meeting at work, there’s an app that will provide all the features you need at an affordable price.