Where Are Custom Ringtones Stored on iPhone?
Custom .m4r ringtones via Finder sync and GarageBand on iPhone, and the streaming tracks that refuse.
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Custom iPhone ringtones are 30 second (max) .m4r AAC files with no browsable on device folder; manage them in Settings, Sounds and Haptics where customs list on top. Two routes in: dragging .m4r onto the iPhone in Finder (Catalina plus) and GarageBand's Share Ringtone export with Use sound as assignment.
Streaming tracks, protected files and pre 2009 DRM purchases all refuse conversion, and converted AAC must leave the Music library before renaming .m4a to .m4r or Finder drags fail. Files can stage .m4r but opening alone installs nothing (newer iOS adds a Share sheet Use as Ringtone path). Tone Store purchases stay separate from customs.
Where iOS stores this, by platform
Settings > Sounds & Haptics > Ringtone
System Tones library, sandboxed with no Files path. Customs (.m4r, 30s max) via Finder drag sync or GarageBand Share Ringtone export. Streaming and protected tracks ineligible.
Frequently asked questions
How do I make a custom iPhone ringtone from a song?
Convert an unprotected track to AAC, trim to 30 seconds, remove it from Music library, rename to .m4r, and drag onto the iPhone in Finder. Or build it in GarageBand and Share as Ringtone directly.
Why won't my track convert to a ringtone?
Apple Music streams, protected files and old DRM purchases are ineligible. Only owned unprotected audio converts; Tone Store purchases are the fallback.
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