A computer implemented method and system for determining a communication mode for recording a media message on a communication device is provided. An adaptive recording application detects activation of an interface element, for example, a push or a touch of a button on the communication device and determines duration of the activation of the interface element. The adaptive recording application, in response to the detection of the activation of the interface element, selects a communication mode, for example, a push to talk communication mode, a tap to start communication mode, etc., based on a comparison of the duration of the activation of the interface element with one or more configurable timing parameters and/or a determination of a presence or an absence of a media signal during and/or after the activation of the interface element. The adaptive recording application initiates recording of the media message in the selected communication mode.