While we keep finding out about neat little features added, expanded, or revised by Google in the latest version of the world’s most popular mobile OS, Android 9 Pie is also sadly doing away with a few things.
 
Fret not, as we’re obviously not talking any earth-shattering changes for the vast majority of smartphone users, but we’re pretty certain a few folks will be disappointed to see call recording support go away.
 
By default, Android handsets technically lacked the ability to record conversations before, which obviously didn’t stop third-party developers from releasing apps with that exact purpose.
 
But a number of those third-party apps aren’t playing nice with devices running Android 9.0, and it’s been confirmed that’s because Google has “added more call recording limits.” The workaround that allowed Boldbeast Android Call Recorder and Call Recorder - ACR to do their thing “up until Android 8.1” has apparently been “closed”, and by the looks of things, no app will be able to “record calls properly” on “any Android 9 phone.”
 
It’s easy to guess why Google took action against a smartphone feature routinely used without the consent or knowledge of individuals being recorded. Security and privacy are among the most discussed topics surrounding every big new software or hardware launch, and the search giant couldn’t let any loophole, no matter how small, threaten its reputation.
 
But at the end of the day, rooting your Android Pie phone should still allow Boldbeast developers, as well as many others, to “fix the problem.” Just remember you’ll be voiding your warranty, and make sure you know exactly what you’re doing. Also, don’t be a jerk and even think about recording anyone without telling them first.