In 2017, iTunes remains a dependable way to create custom ringtones from your favorite tracks for iPhone and other iOS devices. This guide walks through the core steps so your new ringtone works smoothly with your library and device.
Below is a practical overview of the workflow, file format rules, and device setup details you need when making ringtones in iTunes 2017.
| Step | Action in iTunes 2017 | Key Setting | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Select a song | Track > Get Info | Open song details |
| 2 | Set start time | Start Time / Duration | Define beginning of clip |
| 3 | Set end time | Stop Time | Define length, max 40 seconds |
| 4 | Create AAC version | Right-click > Create AAC Version | Shorten the copied track |
| 5 | Locate file | Show in Windows Explorer / Finder | Access the m4a file |
| 6 | Change extension | .m4a to .m4r | Convert to ringtone format |
| 7 | Sync to device | Add to iOS device in iTunes | Available in Settings > Sounds |
Preparing Your Music Library
Begin by organizing the tracks you want to use so you can locate them quickly. Check the duration to ensure you only select sections that fit the 40-second limit for standard ringtones. Clean up large playlists to keep sync times short and reduce confusion when you create multiple ringtones.
Setting Start and Stop Times
Using the Get Info Panel
Open the song, press Get Info, and enter exact Start Time and Stop Time values. Aim for a segment under 40 seconds to avoid conversion issues. Accurate timestamps here prevent clipping mistakes and help you preview the exact portion that will play on your device.
Creating the AAC Version
Converting to a Short Clip
After setting times, right-click the track and choose Create AAC Version. iTunes generates a shortened copy that follows your start and stop settings. This AAC file is the base for your ringtone before the extension change.
Converting AAC to M4R Format
Changing the File Extension
Locate the new AAC file in your system folder, copy it, and paste it back into your iTunes Media folder. Rename the copy from .m4a to .m4r so iTunes and iOS recognize it as a ringtone. Keep the original AAC file as a backup in case you need to adjust the timing later.
Syncing Ringtones to Your Device
Adding Ringtones Manually
Drag the .m4r file into the device section of iTunes, sync is enabled, and the tone appears under Tones in your iOS Settings. Confirm that the device is set to use this ringtone for specific contacts or alerts. Periodic resyncs ensure new ringtones stay available after updates.
Best Practices for Managing Ringtones
- Choose a distinct 10–30 second segment so the ringtone is recognizable but not too long.
- Keep an original .m4a copy of the segment for future edits.
- Name .m4r files clearly, including the contact or purpose, to find them quickly later.
- Test the tone on your device after each sync to confirm volume and playback are correct.
- Resync when you add new tones so they appear in the Settings > Sounds menu.
FAQ
Reader questions
Where are my custom ringtones after syncing?
On your iOS device, go to Settings > Sounds > Ringtone to see tones created on your computer. They appear in the list alongside default options once the device sync completes successfully.
Why does my ringtone sound choppy or distorted?
This usually happens when the source audio quality is low or the selected segment contains sudden volume spikes. Use a clean section of a song and keep the clip under 40 seconds to maintain clarity after conversion.
Can I make a ringtone longer than 40 seconds?
Standard ringtones on iOS are limited to 40 seconds for compatibility. If you need a longer alert, use it as a text tone or notification instead, where there is no strict time cap. Add the file manually to your iTunes library by choosing File > Add File to Library. Then verify that Tones are enabled in your device settings during the next sync to ensure the tone transfers.