Voice Memos won't resume from home screen widget on iPhone

Question

Level 1

4 points

Voice Memos won't resume from home screen widget on iPhone

Hello!

I am reporting an issue with the standard "Voice Memos" app. While listening to a recording, there is a need to pause it when my phone is locked. However, after pausing, it is impossible to resume playback directly from the home screen (from the widget/player).

It seems like the "Voice Memos" app closes, and the player on the home screen (in the notification center or the "Now Playing" widget) displays a "No Audio" status. Furthermore, if I press the "Play" button in this player, music from a completely different app (my app for audio books) starts playing instead.

So, I want to ask:

Why does the "Voice Memos" app close and disappear from the player on the home screen after pausing?

What is the correct way to use the pause function while listening to recordings to be able to resume playback from the home screen?

Is a fix for this behavior planned in future iOS updates?

I have IPhone 15 pro max, ver. 26.1.

iPhone 15 Pro Max, iOS 26

Posted on Feb 11, 2026 12:54 AM

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Answer 1

SravanKrA

Level 10

432,112 points

Feb 11, 2026 1:51 AM in response to kira_sekira

This platform is designed as a user-to-user forum with Apple Inc. acting as a moderator. The primary objective is to foster a community where users can participate in meaningful discussions while adhering to established guidelines.

This platform serves as a space for users to engage in meaningful conversations, share information, and exchange ideas related to Apple products. It's a community-driven initiative where users support each other by sharing their experiences and technical expertise in using Apple devices. While Apple Inc. is not actively participating in these discussions, the forum is a valuable resource for seeking guidance and assistance from fellow users who possess a wealth of experience with Apple products. Feel free to explore the discussions, ask questions, and benefit from the collective knowledge of this community.

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Hence, some of the following links, which are relevant to your query, may help you:

Questions directed to Apple Inc Product Feedback - Apple
Suggestions and Feedback for improvements --> Apple Inc says; "We read all feedback carefully, but we are unable to respond to each submission individually."
1. Here is how for iPhone · Country or region* Select your country or region. · Feedback Type* Select feedback type. · Comments* Enter a comment.
2. Feedback - iPhone - Apple
Product Launch Detail and iOS release features coverage etc.. --> Apple
Any other issue --> Contact – Official Apple Support (IN) & Contact Apple for support and service

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Answer 2

SravanKrA

Level 10

432,112 points

Feb 11, 2026 2:08 AM in response to kira_sekira

The pic below, which is self-explanatory. This is the process that I use, and it works perfectly.

Note: Even if the screen is locked, the Voice Memo continues to play, and the audio can be heard over the speaker or AirPods. As the audio does not stop even after the screen is locked, there is no question of resuming.

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