what is icon next to time on iphone screen?

Hello~ Absent a screenshot as *Jeff Donald * mentions we can only guess. Take a look below…

Status icons and symbols on your iPhone - Apple Support

~Katana-San~

A screenshot would be most helpful. Please share so we can properly identify the symbol/icon.

It sounds like you're referring to the button to initiate call recording.

Hello again ~ Good…which icon was of concern?

~Katana-San~