With the arrival of iOS 26, Apple has finally simplified one of the changes most sought after by users: personalize the ringtone directly from the iPhone, without having to use GarageBand or connect the device to the computer.
Now it can all be done in seconds from the Files app, thanks to a new feature in the Share menu that allows you to set any audio clip as a ringtone in just a few taps.
The new system is based on the Use as ringtone option, which appears when you long press an audio file in the Files app and select Share.
If the fragment meets the requirements—compatible format (MP3 or M4A), maximum duration of 30 seconds and saved locally—the system automatically adds it to Settings > Sounds and vibration > Ringtone, and it is instantly selected.
It’s important to note that not all tracks can be used: DRM-protected files, such as Apple Music songs, are excluded, even if you have a subscription.If the file is longer than 30 seconds, it will need to be trimmed before assigning it as a ringtone.
Customizing the ringtone is one of the easiest ways to give your iPhone a unique touch and stand out from the crowd.With the latest iOS updates, it is now possible to transform any fragment of audio into your main tune without the need for external applications or complicated processes.
The 30-second limit forces you to select the most representative fragment of the song, such as the chorus or a special section.You can trim the audio during screen recording or before saving it to Files with the help of an editing app.
If you don’t see the Use as ringtone option in the Share menu, check that the file is saved in the Files app, that it is no longer than 30 seconds, and that it is in the correct format.If it still doesn’t appear, edit the Share menu to add the action or make sure you’ve updated to the latest version of iOS 26.
Once assigned, the custom ringtone will be saved next to the pre-installed ones and you can switch between them or delete them at any time. It is no longer necessary to repeat the process for each change: the ringtone remains until you decide to delete it.
If your sound source is a video, such as a screen recording, you can convert it to audio with the appropriate shortcut and then follow the usual process. Always remember to trim the file so that it does not exceed 30 seconds and store the result locally.
Avoid using DRM-protected songs, and if the Share menu doesn’t show the desired option, review and edit the available actions.Thus, you can enjoy a truly personalized iPhone, with the tone you choose, in just a few seconds and without complications.
