With the release of iOS 18.2, Apple has introduced an exciting feature for music creators: layered voice memos. This update is exclusive to the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max and empowers users to record vocal tracks over existing instrumental music without the hassle of headphones.
This new functionality is not just about convenience. It leverages the advanced capabilities of Apple's A18 chip to isolate the vocal recordings through sophisticated processing and machine learning. This means artists can easily manage both vocal and instrumental tracks, giving rise to new creative possibilities directly from their smartphones.
To create these layered voice memos, users simply need to follow these straightforward steps:
- Open the Voice Memos app on their device.
- Select the existing recording they want to layer vocals onto.
- Click the waveform icon, indicating options to manage the track.
- Tap on the plus icon to add additional vocals.
- Hit the red button to begin recording the second layer.
Once recorded, users can seamlessly mix and edit their tracks by accessing the same waveform icon, where they can adjust the audio mixes with simple sliders. This all-in-one approach means less time spent on complicated setups and more time focused on artistry.
Once you’ve nailed down those vocal harmonies or laid down your lyrical genius, you can export these recordings. Apple highlights how these tracks can be easily shared with professional music software like Logic Pro, providing budding artists the tools they need to produce high quality music straight from their iPhones.
But this feature isn’t only about recording; it’s about collaboration too. Artists can now send compressed audio files directly from Logic Pro to the Voice Memos app, allowing greater flexibility and creativity during the recording process. The ease of swapping files means artists can capture inspirations as they come without being tied down to traditional studio environments.
Big names have already started using this feature, including three notable GRAMMY winners: Michael Bublé, Carly Pearce, and Greg Wells. They recently collaborated to record "Maybe This Christmas" using the iPhone 16 Pro's new capabilities. Bublé emphasized the impact of this technology on everyday creativity, remarking, “...being unencumbered by the traditional studio becomes the advantage, not the limitation.” This sentiment exactly encapsulates the freedom and inspiration flowing from the new layered recording feature.
While this tool will greatly benefit those immersed in music production, it also serves as an impressive introduction to potential casual users. The versatility allows for everything from voiceovers for videos to personal notes where users might want to annotate their thoughts with added musical dimensions.
Although the layered voice memos are currently limited to the latest iPhone 16 models running on iOS 18.2, the good news is the recordings are compatible across devices with the same updates. Users can listen to their creations through any device operating with iPadOS 18.2 or macOS Sequoia 15.2.
For those concerned about sharing their art, the process remains simple. Once layered voice notes are created, you can easily separate the layers for independent editing or playback. Just open the recording, select the option to separate the layers, and you’ll see both tracks listed independently.
It’s clear the new update expands the horizons for iPhone musicians, making complex studio-grade recordings straightforward and accessible. You no longer have to seek out different recording devices; the power of creating is now literally at your fingertips.
Whether you’re developing your music prowess or just dabbling with voice recording, the layered voice notes feature is bound to enrich your creative process. With these advancements, Apple continues to prove its commitment to supporting creators by equipping them with modern technology to inspire and innovate.
The buzz of excitement and creativity is palpable, and as more users explore this feature, the musical possibilities are sure to be expansive. Expect to hear more beautifully layered tracks surfacing, thanks to Apple’s intuitive design and foresight for the future of mobile recording.