Have you used all the default ringtones on your iPhone and want to add custom ringtones without a computer? Luckily, there are lots of ways you can do this. This guide teaches you how to purchase ringtones from the iTunes Store app, get free ringtones from Zedge, and how to create custom ringtones with GarageBand.
How to set custom ringtones on iPhone without a computer
Follow these methods to easily add and assign new ringtones to your device.
Method 1: Using the iTunes Store
- Open the iTunes Store app on your iPhone.
- TapMore (…) at the bottom right, then select the Tones tab.
- Browse available ringtones by tapping Charts or Featured; if needed, tap the Search icon and type your query.
- Tap the price next to the ringtone you want.
- Enter your Apple ID password if prompted, then tap OK to download.
- Assign the ringtone when prompted: choose Set as Default Ringtone, Set as Default Text Tone, or Assign to a Contact; alternatively, tap Done for later.
- To assign later, open the Settings app, go to Sounds & Haptics, tap Ringtone, and select it; for a contact, open the Contacts app, select a contact, tap Edit, tap Ringtone, choose the tone, then tap Done twice.
Method 2: Using Zedge
- Open Safari and go to Zedge.
- Tap the three-line menu icon in the top right, then tap Browse Now and select the Ringtones tab to find one you like.
- Tap Download, the purple button at the bottom.
- Tap Download in the pop-up to confirm.
- Open GarageBand and tap the Keyboard option to start a new project.
- Tap the Project icon (three broken lines) to view audio tracks.
- Tap the Loop icon (second from the right).
- Navigate to the downloaded file in the Files app (in the Zedge folder).
- Long-press the song and drag it to a new track, avoiding the keyboard track.
- Tap the downward arrow, then tap My Songs to save as My Song.
- Long-press the song, tap Share, then tap Ringtone.
- Name your project and tap Export.
- Tap Use sound as and choose default ringtone, text tone, or a specific contact, then tap Done.
Method 3: Creating with GarageBand
- Open GarageBand; you’ll need an unprotected song like one from YouTube or a voice memo.
- Tap the Keyboard option to start a new project.
- Tap the Project icon (three broken lines).
- Tap the Loop icon (second from the right).
- Navigate to your song in the Files or Music tab.
- Long-press the song and drag it to a new track.
- Trim the track by tapping the waveform and dragging the yellow markers to keep it under 40 seconds.
- Tap the downward arrow, then tap My Songs.
- Long-press the song, tap Share, then tap Ringtone.
- Name your project and tap Export.
- Tap Use sound as and choose how to use it (default, text tone, or specific contact); tap Done if not setting immediately.
Custom ringtones personalize your iPhone, making it easier to identify incoming calls without looking at the screen. They add a fun, unique touch to your device, reflecting your style or even signaling specific contacts. This customization enhances your daily interactions with your phone.
Beyond aesthetics, setting unique tones for texts or contacts improves efficiency, helping you prioritize notifications quickly. It also encourages creativity, as creating your own via GarageBand can be a rewarding hobby. Overall, these features make your iPhone experience more engaging and tailored to you.
