Step 1: Prepare the MP3 you want to use as an iPhone ringtone

First, prepare the music you want to use as a ringtone. MP3 is recommended. Save it in the Files app.

Step 2: Make an iPhone ringtone with GarageBand

Next, open the built-in GarageBand app on iPhone (re-download it if you deleted it), tap “Create Song”, and choose “Recorder”.

  1. Open the tracks view: On the recorder page, tap the third icon in the top-left to enter the tracks view, then tap the second-to-last circle icon in the top-right.
  2. Drag the MP3 into the track: This is the key step. Switch to the Files tab, find the MP3 you just downloaded, and drag it into the track on the left.
  3. Edit the ringtone: Drag the start and end to select the segment you want. You can also tap Play to preview whether it matches your expectations.
  4. Save the song: After confirming, tap the triangle icon in the top-left, then tap “My Songs”. You will see the file saved successfully; long-press it.
  5. Create the ringtone: After long-pressing the audio file, choose “Share” and then tap “Ringtone”.
  6. Export the ringtone: You can edit the ringtone name here. After editing, tap “Export” in the top-right to finish your custom iPhone ringtone.
Step 3: Set the iPhone ringtone

Open Settings on your iPhone, tap “Sounds & Haptics” > “Ringtone”, and you will see the ringtone you just created.

Step 4: Set the iPhone alarm ringtone

Open the Clock app, tap “Edit” in the top-left, and choose any alarm you want to change. Tap “Sound”, then set “Ringtone” to the MP3 ringtone you just made.