JIC iPhone case will record your phone calls without an app
An easy way to record calls is finally coming to iPhone and it’s not an app, it’s a case.
Just In Case, currently on Indiegogo, is an iPhone case that records your phone conversations and stores them on a microSD card — no app or other physical device required. Just hit the record button on the back and the microphone located near the phone’s ear speaker will start recording. According to the campaign, JIC is designed for iPhone 5 and above, not including Plus models.
You can playback the MP3 files through a speaker on the case, but with only two buttons on the device — record and play — it might be too simplistic for users who want to rewind or fast forward through their recordings. There is also the option to upload the MP3 files to a computer with either the removable microSD card or with a USB cable.
Current iPhone call-recorders can be a pain to get working and often have certain limitations. The Google Voice app only records incoming calls, some apps require you to put your call on hold to merge in a third line and many recording apps require in-app purchases or charge you by the minute.
You can also get a physical recorder and use a hollow ear bud with a built-in microphone to pick up sound at your ear, but that can prove uncomfortable and requires some extra physical finagling.
JIC cases will come in multiple colors, with black, white and red silicon padding and red, yellow, green, blue, black and white plastic covers. According to the Indiegogo campaign, the cases can withstand drops of up to 10 feet and 220 pounds of pressure. The rechargeable battery lasts up to 8 hours when recording and up to a year when not in use.
The microphone can also record in-person conversations, reaching distances of up to 16 feet, according to the campaign.
If you're thinking about recording all your conversations, be wary that different countries and states have very specific recording laws. For example, New York allows phone recording if you are part of the conversation, but Illinois requires consent from all parties. You can see a breakdown of United States recording laws at the Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press.
If JIC is funded, the team will move into production and expects to start shipping cases in May.