How to set custom ringtones on iPhone

Learn how to create, sync, and assign custom ringtones to your iPhone contacts using GarageBand and iTunes/Finder. No third-party apps required.

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.