Enhance Your Sound Creativity by Layering Tracks Using Voice Memos – MacRumors

The iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max feature a new capability in the Voice Memos app that allows users to add a second audio layer to an existing recording. This feature is perfect for those looking to include vocals, narration, or extra instrumentals without the hassle of using headphones.

With the advanced A18 Pro chip, these iPhone models can play an original Voice Memo through their speakers while simultaneously isolating and capturing new audio. This innovation provides musicians, podcasters, or anyone who frequently records voice notes with the ability to layer sounds, enhancing their recordings effortlessly.

After recording, users can edit and fine-tune layered recordings directly on their device, or transfer them to professional software like Logic Pro for more advanced mixing. To create a layered recording, start by opening the Voice Memos app located in the Utilities folder.

Select the existing recording you wish to augment, and tap the waveform icon to access the audio. From there, pressing the plus icon allows you to prepare for recording a new layer.

When you’re ready, simply tap the red record button to capture the additional audio. After recording, you’ll notice the new layered recording in your Voice Memos list, marked with an overlapping tiles symbol.

You can mix these layers easily by adjusting the Layer Mix slider found in the settings, enabling you to balance the sound effectively. For editing flexibility, you can separate the layers by using the More button and selecting “Separate Layers.” This generates two distinct recordings, which can then be altered or played independently.

It’s important to note that while the layering feature is exclusive to the iPhone 16 Pro models, playback is available on any device running compatible software. Layered recordings are saved in the QuickTime Audio format, and on older devices, separating the layers converts them to accessible .m4a files.

However, only the original layer can be transcribed or recorded in stereo, as additional layers are captured in mono.