With iOS 26, Apple is introducing many small improvements that can make a big difference in everyday life. One of them is particularly useful, but has received little attention so far: You can now set your own ringtones on your iPhone without using GarageBand or iTunes. For anyone who's always been annoyed by Apple's complicated ringtone management, this is a welcome innovation.
With iOS 26, you no longer need any additional software to create a custom ringtone. A simple audio file is enough – the rest is done directly on the iPhone. This feature is especially interesting for users who already have their own tones saved and don't want to deal with complicated editing or app downloads.
Set up a ringtone directly via the Files app
To set up your own ringtone on your iPhone running iOS 26, simply open the Files app. The audio file you want must be in either MP3 or M4A format and no longer than 30 seconds. Longer files won't be accepted by the system. Once you've found the right file, tap it. The preview will then open. You'll find the Share button at the bottom right. Tap it, scroll down in the Share menu, select "More," and then "Set as Ringtone." The file will then be automatically added to your iPhone's ringtone list. You'll then find it under Settings, then "Sounds & Haptics," and then "Ringtone." From here, you can set it like any other sound.
Other apps also support the function
The "Set as Ringtone" option appears not only in the Files app, but also in certain other apps—for example, Voice Memos. This means you can also use your own recordings, made directly on your iPhone, as ringtones without having to convert or edit them first.
- Important to note: This feature only applies to local files. Apple Music songs still can't be used as ringtones – even if you have an active Apple Music subscription. The copy protection remains in place, and the system doesn't allow direct conversion of this content.
iTunes ringtones still available, but hardly relevant anymore
Even in iOS 26, you can still purchase ready-made ringtones from the iTunes Store. Apple sells 30-second audio clips there for €0.99 each. The feature is technically still available, but seems significantly outdated given the new ability to create your own ringtones for free and instantly.
Ringtones on iOS 26: Direct and uncomplicated
With iOS 26, Apple is finally simplifying the process of creating and setting up your own ringtones. You don't need GarageBand, iTunes, or any external tools. All you need is a suitable audio file and a few simple steps in the Files app. The feature is straightforward, fast, and a real benefit for many users in everyday life. Even though Apple still offers purchased ringtones, this new feature makes it virtually unnecessary. If you like to personalize your iPhone, you'll probably quickly appreciate this small but useful improvement. The best products for you: Our Amazon Storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: Shutterstock / Team B2)
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