Setting a custom ringtone on your iPhone can add a personal touch to your device and help you identify incoming calls with ease. While iPhones offer a selection of pre-installed ringtones, you can also use your own audio files as ringtones. This guide will walk you through the process of setting a custom ringtone on your iPhone from audio files that are not purchased from the iTunes Store.
Without PC
Step 1: Prepare the Audio File
Begin by ensuring that the audio file you wish to use as a ringtone is in the compatible format. iPhones demand ringtones to be in the M4R format. If your audio file is in a different format, like MP3, you’ll need to convert it to M4R using a file conversion app.
Step 2: Acquire the GarageBand App
If you haven’t already, download the GarageBand app from the App Store. This app allows you to create and customize audio tracks, including ringtones, directly on your iPhone.
Step 3: Create a New Project
Launch GarageBand and create a new project. Opt for an Audio Recorder project.
Step 4: Import the Audio File
Tap the ‘+’ button to add a new track. Choose “Audio Recorder,” then tap the microphone icon. Select “Import” and choose the prepared audio file.
Step 5: Edit and Trim the Audio
Edit the audio file to your liking, ensuring it’s not longer than 30 seconds (the iPhone’s ringtone limit). Trim and arrange the audio as needed.
Step 6: Save as Ringtone
Tap the arrow icon in the top-left corner and select “My Songs.” Press and hold the song you created, then tap “Share.” Choose “Ringtone” and provide a name for your ringtone.
Step 7: Set the Custom Ringtone
Navigate to “Settings” > “Sounds & Haptics” (or “Sounds” on older iOS versions) > “Ringtone” on your iPhone. Your custom ringtone should appear in the list. Select it to make it your default ringtone.
With PC
Step 1: Prepare the Audio File
Before you begin, ensure that you have the audio file you want to use as a ringtone in the appropriate format. iPhones require ringtones to be in the M4R format. If your audio file is in a different format, such as MP3, you’ll need to convert it to M4R using a file conversion tool or software.
Step 2: Connect Your iPhone to a Computer
Using a USB cable, connect your iPhone to a computer. Whether you’re using a Mac or a Windows PC, this connection will allow you to manage your device’s content.
Step 3: Use iTunes (Windows) or Finder (Mac)
Depending on your computer’s operating system, you’ll use either iTunes (Windows) or Finder (Mac) to proceed.
Step 4: Add the Ringtone to iTunes or Finder
- iTunes (Windows): Launch iTunes and click on the device icon when it appears. Navigate to the “Tones” section under your device. Drag and drop the converted M4R file into the Tones section.
- Finder (Mac): Open a Finder window and select your iPhone from the sidebar. Locate the “Tones” section and drag the M4R file into it.
Step 5: Sync the Ringtone to Your iPhone
In iTunes (Windows) or Finder (Mac), ensure that the “Sync Tones” or “Sync” option is selected. Choose whether you want to sync all tones or only selected ones, including the newly added ringtone.
Step 6: Apply the Changes
Click the “Apply” button in iTunes (Windows) or perform a sync in Finder (Mac) to transfer the ringtone to your iPhone.
Step 7: Set the Custom Ringtone on Your iPhone
On your iPhone, navigate to “Settings” > “Sounds & Haptics” (or “Sounds” on earlier iOS versions) > “Ringtone.” Under the “Ringtones” section, you should see your custom ringtone listed. Select it to set it as your default ringtone.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind:
- The song or audio file must be in AAC format to be used as a ringtone.
- The ringtone file must be less than 30 seconds long.
- You can also use GarageBand to create and set a ringtone on your iPhone.
I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.
