Apple iPadOS 26 Unlocks Podcasting Power with Local Audio & Video Capture

A Game-Changing Update for Creators and Podcasters

In a surprise announcement during WWDC25, Apple introduced a long-awaited feature in iPadOS 26: built-in local audio and video capture during calls. For creators, podcasters, and journalists who rely on portable workflows, this marks a seismic shift in how they can use their iPads. While iPads have always been capable machines, one major shortcoming has been their inability to simultaneously record local audio while on a call—until now.

Apple’s New Feature Revolutionizes Podcasting Workflows

Previously, iPhones and iPads couldn’t handle podcasting workflows where you needed to record high-quality local audio while on a live remote call. This limitation excluded them from being true contenders in mobile podcasting. But with iPadOS 26, Apple is changing the game.

Podcasting veteran Jason Snell, known for using Ferrite to edit podcasts entirely on iPad, was among the first to test this feature. Using the developer beta of iPadOS 26, he successfully recorded a full episode of the Six Colors Podcast with co-host Dan Moren—entirely on iPads. The result? A flawless, professional-sounding podcast that didn’t require a MacBook or external gear. The system-level audio and video capture was smooth, stable, and impressively polished for a beta release.

However, Apple’s implementation is privacy-conscious. Unlike macOS, iPadOS won’t give full simultaneous mic access to multiple apps. Instead, Apple integrated a new system-level feature via the Control Center that activates local media capture only during active calls. It ensures transparency with a recording symbol at the top of the screen, and it doesn’t run if another app isn’t using the mic and camera. This makes it secure, user-friendly, and free of sneaky background recording risks.

Snell pointed out a few areas for improvement, such as lack of real-time audio level monitoring and gain controls. But considering it’s only in the developer beta stage, the feature is already surprisingly refined. If these tweaks are added before the public release, the iPad could become the ultimate portable podcast studio, eliminating the need to travel with heavy MacBooks.

This change could usher in a new wave of content creators embracing iPad-first workflows. As Apple continues refining its OS, we’re moving closer to a future where lightweight, all-in-one podcasting is the norm—no compromises, no clutter, just clean audio and video capture on the go.

What Undercode Say: 🧠 In-Depth Analysis & Commentary

A Creator-Centric Move by Apple

The addition of built-in local recording for audio and video in iPadOS 26 reflects Apple’s strategic alignment with modern content creation demands. The update isn’t just a convenience—it’s an enabler. Apple is acknowledging the professional aspirations of iPad users and answering a long-standing complaint among podcasters.

A Boost to iPad’s Productivity Reputation

For years, critics have labeled the iPad as a “consumption device” rather than a creation tool. But this shift brings it squarely into MacBook territory, especially for audio professionals. The simplicity of system-level capture avoids the need for third-party hacks or external hardware, boosting the iPad’s reputation as a professional-grade, standalone production tool.

Privacy-First Approach Sets the Standard

Unlike Android platforms where mic access can be a bit of a Wild West, Apple’s tightly controlled feature is privacy-forward. Users get full transparency about when they’re being recorded, and Apple avoids giving apps unnecessary access to sensitive hardware. This approach may restrict certain advanced uses, but it prioritizes user trust, which is central to Apple’s brand identity.

Developer Beta Already Feels Polished

It’s rare to see a new OS feature perform this smoothly in early beta. This speaks volumes about the maturity of Apple’s software development process, and their internal testing rigor. Although features like gain adjustment or live audio metering are still missing, the core functionality delivers exactly what it promises—and that’s a huge deal.

Undercode’s Verdict

If Apple keeps evolving this feature through the iPadOS 26 lifecycle, it could redefine how and where content is created. Expect to see more iPad-first production setups, especially among mobile journalists, indie podcasters, and even educators recording high-quality remote lessons.

✅ Fact Checker Results

Jason Snell did indeed record a full podcast using just iPads on iPadOS 26.
The audio was clear and professional, with no quality loss compared to Mac-based workflows.
Apple’s new system does not allow unrestricted mic access, maintaining high privacy standards.

🔮 Prediction

With the upcoming public release of iPadOS 26, iPads will gain a strong foothold in the professional creator space. Expect a surge in iPad-first podcasting tutorials, new Ferrite updates, and maybe even a wave of accessories optimized for the mobile podcasting crowd. Apple is positioning the iPad to finally compete head-to-head with laptops in mobile media creation.

References:

Reported By: 9to5mac.com
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