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iOS 26 Makes Custom iPhone Ringtones Easier Than Ever

Creating a custom iPhone ringtone used to involve workarounds like GarageBand or iTunes, but iOS 26 introduces a much simpler way. Now, you can set a personalized ringtone straight from the Files app in seconds—no third-party apps, no complex exports. Whether you’ve got a short music clip, voice note, or sound effect, this latest iOS version turns it into a ringtone in just a few taps. If you’ve been wondering how to set a custom ringtone on iPhone in iOS 26, this guide walks you through the updated process step-by-step.

How iOS 26 Simplifies Custom iPhone Ringtone Setup

With iOS 26, Apple finally removes the GarageBand requirement that long frustrated users. If your audio file is in MP3 or M4A format and under 30 seconds, all it takes is a long press and a few taps. You simply open the Files app, long-press your clip, tap Share, then select Use as Ringtone—and it’s done. iOS 26 handles the file conversion and automatically sets the new tone as your default ringtone.

Where iOS 26 Lets You Use Custom Ringtones

The Use as Ringtone feature doesn’t stop at the Files app. iOS 26 extends the functionality to audio content stored in Voice Memos and select third-party apps, making the system even more flexible. After setting your ringtone, you’ll be taken directly to Settings → Sounds & Haptics → Ringtone, where the custom tone will already be selected. You can change or delete it just as easily.

What You Still Can’t Do With Ringtones on iOS 26

While iOS 26 makes personal ringtone creation effortless, some restrictions remain. You still can’t set Apple Music tracks as ringtones for free—even with a paid subscription. For those, Apple continues to charge $1.29 via the iTunes Store. But for users who want to use their own audio files, iOS 26’s update is a big step forward in convenience and customization.