Need to record your iPhone 16 screen? Here's how to do it

Apple iPhone 16 held in the hand.
(Image credit: Future)

Have you ever wanted to show someone exactly how to do something on their iPhone? I find myself constantly recording my screen to create quick tutorials for family members who are a little less tech-savvy.

Whether you're teaching someone how to take a screenshot, scan a QR code, or force restart their device, screen recording is much clearer than trying to explain steps through messaging. While the iPhone 16 makes this process straightforward, you'll first need to check the the feature is properly set up in your Control Center.

With screen record you can capture anything with just a couple of taps, making it perfect for sharing achievements, saving social media stories, or showing someone how to do something. Let's learn how to screen record on your iPhone 16.

1. Set up screen recording

(Image: © Tom's Guide)

First, check if the screen recording option is in your Control Center. Swipe down from the top-right corner of your screen to open Control Center.

If you don't see the screen recording icon (a circle within a circle), you'll need to add it. Tap the plus button and select Add Control. Find screen recording in the list and tap it to add to Control Center.

2. Start recording

(Image: © Tom's Guide)

Tap the screen recording icon to begin. You'll see a three-second countdown before the recording starts. The icon will turn red and appear in your status bar to indicate that it's active.

3. End the recording

(Image: © Tom's Guide)

When you're finished, tap the red recording indicator at the top of your screen. You can stop the video by pressing the red square.

Your video will automatically be saved to the Photos app, where you can edit or share it.


Now that you've learned how to screen record on iPhone 16, why not check out some of our other useful guides. We break down simply and easily how to turn off your iPhone 16, how to silence your iPhone 16, and how to turn off Apple Intelligence on your iPhone.

Kaycee Hill
Tutorials editor

Kaycee is an Editor at Tom’s Guide and has been writing for as long as she can remember. Her journey into the tech world began as Cazoo's Knowledge Content Specialist, igniting her enthusiasm for technology. When she’s not exploring the latest gadgets and innovations, Kaycee can be found immersed in her favorite video games, or penning her second poetry collection.