With the rise in popularity of video calling services like FaceTime, WhatsApp, and Facebook Messenger, more and more people are looking for ways to save or download their video calls. While most video calling apps do not have a built-in way to record or download video calls, there are some workarounds that allow you to save Messenger video chats on your device.
Why Would You Want to Download a Messenger Video Call?
There are several reasons why someone may want to download and save a Messenger video call:
- To save important conversations for later reference
- To share a funny or memorable video call moment with friends
- To have a record of an important discussion for work or other matters
- To save the memories from a video chat with long-distance friends or family
Being able to download and store your Messenger video chats gives you the flexibility to revisit conversations and moments later on. It allows you to preserve meaningful interactions that you had over Messenger calls.
Is It Possible to Download Messenger Video Calls Directly?
Unfortunately, Facebook Messenger does not have a built-in feature that allows you to directly download the video from a call. While apps like WhatsApp give you the option to directly save a video call, Messenger currently does not have this capability.
Messenger calls are encrypted, so the video stream is not saved on Facebook’s servers after your call ends. This means there is no way for you to retrieve the files directly from Messenger after the call is over.
How Can You Save Messenger Video Calls Instead?
If you want to keep a record of your Messenger video conversations, there are a couple of workarounds you can use:
1. Use a Screen Recording App
One of the easiest ways to download a Messenger video call is to use a screen recording app on your device. Here are some options:
- Android – Use the built-in screen recorder or an app like AZ Screen Recorder.
- iPhone – Use the built-in Screen Recording feature or an app like ScreenRec.
- Windows – Use the Game Bar to record or try an app like OBS Studio.
- Mac – Use QuickTime Player’s screen recording or a third-party app.
Start recording your screen before you begin the video call and stop it when your call ends. You can then save the recording to your device and watch it back anytime.
2. Use Third-Party Apps
There are some third-party apps that can help you record and save Messenger calls:
- Call Recorder for Messenger – Android app that automatically records all calls.
- Video Downloader for Facebook – Chrome extension to download videos.
- SaveFromNet – Web tool to download Facebook videos.
Look for apps with good ratings that do not seem malicious or suspicious. Be wary of apps that ask for a lot of device permissions.
Tips for Downloading Messenger Video Calls
Here are some tips to follow when recording a Messenger video call:
- Let the other person know you are recording for consent.
- Display the call in full screen for better quality.
- Make sure your device audio is turned on during recording.
- Test your setup first before an important call.
- Use headphones to avoid echo or feedback.
- Trim the start and end of the recording to remove unnecessary parts.
Saving a Messenger Video Call on Android
For Android users, here are specific steps to save a Messenger video call using the built-in screen recorder:
- Open the Messenger app and start the video call.
- When on the call, slide down the notification panel at the top and tap on “Start screen recording.”
- A 3-second countdown will begin. Once it finishes, your screen will now be recorded.
- Carry on with your video call as usual. The call will be captured in the recording.
- After your call ends, slide back down and select “Stop recording.”
- Your screen recording will be automatically saved in the Photos app.
- You can trim the start and end to keep just the video call portion.
This provides an easy, no-fuss way to download Messenger video calls on Android phones. Just be sure to give notice before recording someone.
Saving a Messenger Video Call on iPhone
For iPhone users, you can use the built-in Screen Recording feature to download Messenger calls:
- Open the Messenger app and start the video call.
- Once on the call, swipe down from the top-right to open Control Center.
- Long press on the Screen Record icon until a 3-second countdown appears.
- Your screen will now be recorded, including the Messenger call.
- Carry on with your video conversation as normal.
- To stop, open Control Center again and tap the Screen Record icon.
- Go to your Photos app to view and trim the recording as needed.
iPhone’s native screen recording capabilities make it easy to capture and download Messenger video chats. Just be sure to let the other person know you are recording them.
Other Ways to Save Your Messenger Calls
In addition to screen recording, there are a couple other options to save your Messenger video calls:
Take a Photo of Your Screen
You can simply take a photo of your screen during the Messenger video call. While not as high quality as a recording, it captures a moment you can keep. Just make sure to give notice first.
Use an External Camera to Record
You can use a standalone camera or second device to record the Messenger call on your screen. This avoids having to download extra apps or use built-in tools.
Things to Keep in Mind When Recording Messenger Calls
When using any method to record Messenger video conversations, keep the following in mind:
- Always get consent from the other person before recording them.
- Be aware of any legal requirements for recording conversations in your region.
- Recording may be prohibited in certain professional settings.
- The other person can also record the call and capture your video.
- Recordings can potentially be shared or leaked beyond their intended use.
In summary, it’s important to have trust and transparency with the other person. Make your intentions clear and respect their preferences around recording.
Is It Legal to Download Messenger Calls?
The legality of recording Messenger video calls depends on your local laws. In the U.S., most states only require one-party consent, meaning you can record a call as long as you are involved in the conversation. However, some states require two-party or all-party consent from those involved.
It’s best to research your state and country laws first. If you plan to record a Messenger call, get permission from the other person involved regardless of the laws in your region.
How to Share Downloaded Messenger Video Calls
Once you’ve recorded a Messenger video conversation, here are some ways to share it with others:
- Use a file sharing app like Dropbox to generate a download link.
- Upload the video to Google Drive or iCloud and share access.
- Send via email as an attachment.
- Use a messaging app like WhatsApp or Telegram to send the file.
- Transfer via AirDrop if sharing between Apple devices.
- Save to a shared cloud storage folder.
Be mindful of only sharing recordings with consent from the other person involved. And it’s best not to post publicly online without permission.
Can You Download Messenger Calls on Desktop?
If you use Messenger for desktop on a Windows PC or Mac, you can also save your video calls using screen recording software.
On Windows, use the built-in Xbox Game Bar to screen record. On Mac, you can use QuickTime Player’s screen recording feature.
There are also third-party apps you can use, like OBS Studio or ScreenFlow. The processes are very similar to mobile.
The same rules and best practices apply in terms of getting consent and only sharing with permission.
Troubleshooting Tips
If you are having issues downloading your Messenger video calls, here are some troubleshooting tips:
- Make sure microphone and screen recording permissions are enabled for the app.
- Try re-starting your device and app if recordings are choppy.
- Update your device software and app to the latest versions.
- Clear cache and data for Messenger app to refresh settings.
- Use wired headphones instead of Bluetooth to avoid audio issues.
- Adjust OS and app settings to improve video quality.
- Test recording during a regular Messenger voice call first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is screen recording Messenger calls legal?
In most regions it is legal if you obtain consent from the person you are recording. However, check your local laws to be sure.
Can you save Messenger calls to your camera roll?
Not directly, but if you use screen recording you can save the video of the Messenger call to your camera roll.
What’s the best screen recorder for Messenger calls?
For iPhone, use the built-in Screen Recording feature. For Android, AZ Screen Recorder is a solid option. On desktop, try QuickTime (Mac) or Game Bar (Windows).
How do I make Messenger video calls full screen?
Tap the full screen icon in the top-right corner of the video call window to make it full screen before recording.
Can you save Messenger Rooms calls?
Yes, the same screen recording techniques work for Messenger Rooms. Just start recording before joining the Room.
Conclusion
Downloading your Messenger video calls is possible by using built-in screen recording features or third-party apps. Just be mindful of consent, local laws, and only sharing with permission. With the right approach, you can safely save important video conversations on Messenger for future reference.