How to set custom ringtones on iPhone

Step by step

1. 3 min

   Open GarageBand and create a new project

   Launch GarageBand on your iPhone. Tap the plus (+) icon, select the Audio Recorder instrument, and tap the track view icon in the top-left corner to access the timeline. Ensure the metronome is disabled by tapping its icon at the top of the screen.

   Note: Use the loop browser icon in the top-right to import your own audio files from the Files app.
2. 2 min

   Trim your audio to ringtone length

   Tap the plus (+) icon at the end of the timeline and set the section length to Automatic or a maximum of 30 seconds. Trim your imported audio clip to ensure the duration does not exceed 30 seconds for optimal compatibility.

   Note: If the clip is longer than 30 seconds, iOS will automatically truncate it during the export process.
3. 1 min

   Export the project as a ringtone

   Tap the downward-facing arrow in the top-left corner and select My Songs to save the project. Once saved, long-press the project icon, select Share, and choose Ringtone from the menu options.

   Note: If the file name is too long, rename it here to something concise.
4. 1 min

   Apply the ringtone to your device

   After the export completes, select Use sound as... to immediately set the tone as your default ringtone, or assign it to a specific contact. Alternatively, tap Done to save it for manual selection later in Settings.

   Note: You can find all custom ringtones in Settings > Sounds & Haptics > Ringtone.
5. 1 min

   Sync custom tones via Finder or iTunes

   If you have .m4r files on your computer, connect your iPhone. Drag and drop the .m4r files directly into the General or Tones tab of your device window within Finder on macOS or iTunes on Windows. Click Apply or Sync to finish the transfer.

   Note: Ensure your audio files are converted to AAC format and have the .m4r extension before syncing.