Screen Recording Desynchronization Issue

I encountered a problem with the Screen Recording feature on my iPhone. When using Screen Recording with the microphone ON, the audio recorded via the microphone is desynchronized in the resulting video—it plays earlier than it should.


Example Scenario:


1. I play a music video on YouTube and use Screen Recording with the microphone enabled to capture myself singing along.


2. Let’s assume the line is “Do Re Mi,” with “Do” occurring at the 3rd second in the YouTube video.


3. I sing along in real time, so my “Do” should also match the 3rd second of the video.


Reality:


• YouTube video: “Do” at the 3rd second.


• My voice (microphone): “Do” also at the 3rd second.


Resulting Video (after Screen Recording):


• YouTube video: “Do” still appears at the 3rd second.


• My voice: “Do” appears earlier, at the 2nd second, which is incorrect.


Observation:


It seems that the audio recorded via the microphone is sped up or shifted forward compared to the screen recording. I doubt this error is resulted from a recent iOS update. Anyone encountered the same problem? What did you do to fix it?


Fyi I am using an iPhone 14 Promax, iOS 18.1.1.





Posted on Dec 10, 2024 10:17 AM

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11 replies

Jan 6, 2025 8:29 AM in response to AkiraHojo

I don’t think screen recording can be synchronized because of the screen having a variable refresh rate.


Apple doesn’t publish any specs on this, so confirming my suspicions is not really possible, except for your real life experience.


It’s also possible that screen recording is not time base corrected to maintain a specific frame rate. Only Apple engineers will be able to confirm.


Another possibility is the streaming of YouTube videos varies the rate at which they are delivered. This could result in the video speeding up and slowing down over time.


I can probably think of ½ a dozen other possible scenarios.

Jan 6, 2025 8:42 AM in response to AkiraHojo

I think it’s highly unlikely related to the update. I suspect one of the variables was consistent long enough for your short test to work. This may be acceptable to you and your needs. The real test is a long recording time of 30 to 60 minutes so the small errors in a short recording, multiply over a longer period of time, and the slip is easily noticed.


But as long as it’s working for your recording needs, you’re all set.

Dec 25, 2024 8:26 AM in response to AkiraHojo

AkiraHojo wrote:

I doubt this error is resulted from a recent iOS update.


It's not always the iOS update's fault!  Many things can cause phone problems.  If you tell people you think it's an iOS update, it might make it harder to fix or find a solution for the real issue.


Remember, the right question often leads to the solution!



iOS updates aim to enhance user experience, boost security, and fix bugs rather than disrupt core features. The majority of the issues after updates might stem from underlying, unmentioned factors. Updates won't typically alter personal data but may refine settings or features. Backup before major updates for safety. Review Apple's update details and backup advice for a smooth process.


Kindly consider checking your settings and addressing any device issues before attributing the issue to external factors. This could be a pure coincidence that the iOS update affected the iPhone functions.


Before initiating a standard iOS update, it's advisable to create a backup. Have you completed this step? If yes, proceed with the restoration from the backup.



See what each update does: About iOS 18 Updates, About iOS 17 Updates, About iOS 16 Updates, About iOS 15 Updates, About iOS 14 Updates, About iOS 13 Updates, About iOS 12 Updates, and so on...



Jan 6, 2025 8:44 AM in response to Jeff Donald

Thank you, Jeff, for your reply.


I think screen recording can and should be synchronized because that was what had happened before. I mean everything was fine before I updated my phone. The issue only arose after the update, which is why I have my doubts.


Update 6/1/25: The issue has been resolved automatically, though I’m unsure when or how it was fixed.



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Screen Recording Desynchronization Issue

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