How to Create Ringtone from MP3 on iPhone

Want to turn your favorite MP3 file into a ringtone on your iPhone? Unlike Android, iPhones don’t offer a simple “set as ringtone” option. But don’t worry — you can still do it easily with the right tools. The most straightforward way is to use the Ringtone Maker – MP3 Converter app. This method allows you to create ringtones directly on your iPhone — no iTunes, no computer, no hassle.

In this guide, we’ll show you three easy methods to create a ringtone from an MP3 file on iPhone.


Method 1: Use Ringtone Maker – MP3 Converter (Fastest & Easiest)

The Ringtone Maker – MP3 Converter app is the most straightforward way to turn any MP3 file into a ringtone. You can import, edit, and export your ringtone without a computer or iTunes.

Steps to Create a Ringtone from MP3 Using Ringtone Maker – MP3 Converter

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  1. Download the Ringtone Maker App
  2. Import the MP3 File
    • Open the app and tap + Add.
    • Select the MP3 file from FilesiCloud, or Downloads.
    • You can also use AirDrop to send an MP3 file directly to your iPhone.
  3. Trim the MP3 File
    • Use the trimming tool to choose the 30-second portion of the song that you want to use as a ringtone.
    • Use the sliders to cut and crop the track.
  4. Export as a Ringtone
    • Tap Export and follow the on-screen instructions to save the file.
  5. Set the Ringtone
    • Open Settings > Sounds & Haptics > Ringtone.
    • Select your custom ringtone from the list.
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Why this is the best method: It’s fast, doesn’t require iTunes, and works directly on iPhone. You can create, edit, and set your ringtone in minutes.


Method 2: Use GarageBand (Free Method)

If you don’t want to download a third-party app, you can use GarageBand, which is a free app from Apple. While it’s free, it’s a bit more complicated than using Ringtone Maker – MP3 Converter.

Steps to Create a Ringtone Using GarageBand

  1. Download and Launch GarageBand
    • Download GarageBand from the App Store if you don’t already have it installed.
  2. Create a New Project
    • Tap Audio Recorder to start a new project.
  3. Import the MP3 File
    • Tap the Loop icon (top-right corner) and choose Files.
    • Import the MP3 file from Files or iCloud Drive.
  4. Edit the MP3 File
    • Drag and trim the MP3 track to 30 seconds or less.
  5. Export as a Ringtone
    • Tap the down arrow in the top-left corner, then select My Songs.
    • Tap and hold the project, then select Share > Ringtone.
  6. Set the Ringtone
    • Export the ringtone and select Use Sound As… to set it as your iPhone’s ringtone.

Why use this methodGarageBand is free and doesn’t require a computer or iTunes. However, it takes more time and effort compared to Ringtone Maker – MP3 Converter.


Method 3: Use iTunes on a Computer (Manual Method)

You need to use iTunes (Windows) to sync a ringtone directly to the Settings menu. Alternatively, use Finder if you have macOS Catalina or later. This method is more complicated than using Ringtone Maker – MP3 Converter.

Steps to Create a Ringtone Using iTunes

  1. Add the MP3 to iTunes
    • Open iTunes on your PC or Mac.
    • Drag the MP3 file into your Music Library.
  2. Trim the MP3 File
    • Right-click the file, select Song Info, and click the Options tab.
    • Set the start and stop times (30 seconds max) and click OK.
  3. Convert the MP3 to AAC
    • Right-click the song and choose Create AAC Version.
    • Locate the file, change the file extension from .m4a to .m4r.
  4. Sync the Ringtone to iPhone
    • Connect your iPhone to the computer.
    • Drag the .m4r file into the Tones section of iTunes.
    • Click Sync to transfer the file to your iPhone.
  5. Set the Ringtone
    • On your iPhone, go to Settings > Sounds & Haptics > Ringtone.
    • Select your custom ringtone from the list.

Why use this method: This method works. Use it if you want the ringtone to be saved directly to Settings. It will be set as a default iPhone ringtone. However, it requires a computer, a USB cable, and multiple steps.

FAQs

1. Can I use an Apple Music song as a ringtone?
No, Apple Music tracks are DRM-protected, which means you can’t convert them to ringtones. However, you can use MP3 files stored on your device, downloaded from the internet, or saved in the Files app.

2. How long can an iPhone ringtone be?
iPhone ringtones are limited to 30 seconds. If the file is longer than that, you’ll need to trim it using Ringtone Maker – MP3 Converter or GarageBand.

3. Can I create a ringtone on iPhone without a computer?
Yes! You can create a ringtone directly on your iPhone using Ringtone Maker – MP3 Converter or GarageBand. No computer, no iTunes, no problem.

4. Can I create a custom ringtone for free?
Yes, GarageBand is free. However, it’s more complicated than using the Ringtone Maker – MP3 Converter, which is faster and more user-friendly.

If you want to create a ringtone from an MP3 on iPhone, your best option is to use Ringtone Maker. This tool is an MP3 Converter. It’s fast, user-friendly, and works directly on iPhone — no iTunes, no computer required. For those looking for a free option, GarageBand is also a good choice, but it takes more time and effort. If you prefer manual control, you can always use iTunes to create ringtones.