With iOS 26, Apple has finally introduced a much-requested feature: the ability to set custom ringtones on your iPhone without needing the GarageBand app.
This new functionality makes it easier than ever to personalize your iPhone’s ringtone using your own audio clips. In what could be a cherry on the cake, it can also work with the third-party apps that are willing to get in line with this new add-on.
Follow along to discover the 3 ways to set a custom iPhone ringtone in iOS 26 with ease.
Step 1: Prepare the Audio File
First, make sure you have an audio file in MP3 or M4A format. The file must be 30 seconds or shorter, as longer files won’t work as ringtones. You can trim audio clips using third-party apps, or record short audio using the Voice Memos app.
Keep in Mind:
- This method also works with audio files in Voice Memos and select third-party apps that support the iOS share sheet.
- You cannot use songs from Apple Music as ringtones, even with a subscription.
Step 2: Open the Files App/Voice Memos App (Method 1 & 2)
- Navigate to the location of the audio file in the Files app or the Voice Memos app.
- In the Files app, tap the file to preview it > tap the Share icon located in the bottom-right corner.
- In the Voice Memos app, head over to the audio file > hit the triple-dot icon next to the audio > tap Share in the menu.
Step 3: Set the File as a Ringtone
- In the share sheet that appears, tap on the More button.
- After that, choose Use as Ringtone. iOS 26 will automatically convert the clip into a ringtone format and add it to your list of available ringtones. (And yes, it will also automatically direct you to the Ringtone section. From where it’s business as usual.)
- The process is same for both the Voice Memos and the Files App.
Step 4: Apply the Ringtone
- Now, go to Settings > Sounds & Haptics > Ringtone. You’ll see your custom ringtone listed at the top. Tap it to set it as your default ringtone.
Set Custom iPhone Ringtone from a Supported Third-Party App (Method 3)
So long as a compatible third-party app allows you to prop up the standard “Share Sheet”, you will be able to set any of its music/audio files as the ringtone.
- Simply, navigate to the audio and preview it > Look for the share sheet and tap on it.
- In the share sheet, hit the More button > Use As Ringtone > Then, dive into the Settings app > Sounds & Haptics > Ringtone section and choose your custom ringtone.
And that’s about it! With this new iOS 26 update, Apple has removed a long-standing inconvenience for iPhone users. Setting a custom ringtone is now simple, fast, and doesn’t require any complicated audio editing tools or extra apps.
