How to Change Ringtone on Android Phone Tablet

Authored by: Support.com Tech Pro Team

Changing the ringtone on your Android phone or tablet is a simple way to personalize your device and give it a unique touch. Whether you want to set a catchy tune, a soothing melody, or a custom sound as your ringtone, Android offers a variety of options to customize this aspect of your device. 

Changing the Ringtone on an Android Phone or Tablet

Method 1: Changing the Ringtone Through Settings

This method works for most Android devices, but the exact steps may vary slightly depending on your device's manufacturer and Android version.

1. Open the "Settings" App

Swipe down from the top of the screen to access the notification panel, then tap the gear-shaped "Settings" icon to open the settings app.

2. Navigate to the "Sound" or "Sound & Vibration" Section

Scroll down or search for the "Sound" or "Sound & Vibration" section within the settings app. The exact name may differ on various Android devices.

3. Select "Phone Ringtone" or "Default Ringtone"

Look for an option like "Phone Ringtone" or "Default Ringtone" and tap on it. This option controls the ringtone for incoming calls.

4. Choose a New Ringtone

You will be presented with a list of pre-installed ringtones. Tap on the one you want to use, and a checkmark or similar indicator will appear next to it. If you don't like the pre-installed ringtones, you can often tap "Add" or "My Sounds" to browse your device's storage and select a custom sound or music file as your ringtone.

5. Save Your Selection

After choosing a ringtone, tap "Save" or "OK" to confirm your selection. Your new ringtone is now set.

Method 2: Using a Third-Party Ringtone App

If you want even more customization options and access to a wide range of ringtones, you can use a third-party ringtone app. Here's how:

1. Download a Ringtone App

Open the Google Play Store on your Android device and search for "ringtone apps." You'll find a variety of options like Zedge, Audiko, or Ringtone Maker. Choose a ringtone app that suits your preferences, read user reviews, and then download and install it.

2. Open the Ringtone App

Launch the ringtone app you installed.

3. Browse or Search for Ringtones

Use the app's search or browse features to find a ringtone you like. Many apps offer a vast selection of ringtones, including music, sound effects, and more.

4. Download and Set the Ringtone

When you find a ringtone you want, tap on it to download it to your device. Follow the app's instructions to set it as your ringtone.

5. Confirm the Change

After setting the new ringtone, go to your device's settings to ensure it's applied as the default ringtone for incoming calls.

Additional Tips

Custom Ringtones: If you have a specific sound or song you want to use as a ringtone, you can often add it to your device's storage and then select it in the ringtone settings.

Assigning Ringtones: Some Android devices allow you to assign specific ringtones to individual contacts. Check your device's contacts app or settings to set custom ringtones for your contacts.

Notification Sounds: The process for changing notification sounds (for texts, emails, etc.) is similar to changing the ringtone. Simply navigate to the appropriate notification sound settings within the "Sound" or "Sound & Vibration" section in your device's settings.

Changing your Android device's ringtone is a quick and easy way to make it feel more personalized. Whether you opt for a classic tone, a catchy song, or a custom sound, your choice of ringtone adds a touch of individuality to your device and enhances your overall mobile experience.

Contact Support.Com:

If you are still having trouble, refer to the Step-By-Step Guide below or consider seeking personalized assistance from Support.Com.

1. Introduction

Changing your ringtone is a fast and easy way to customize your Android phone, and it add a bit of fun and personality, not to mention it makes it easier to recognize your when your phone is ringing, rather than someone else's.

This guide will walk you through changing your default, as well as your per contact ringtones.

Android Ringtones.

2. Global Ringtone

  1. Open Settings.
Android Settings.
  1. Select Sound.
Android Settings with Sound highlighted.
  1. Select Phone Ringtone.
Sound Settings with Phone ringtone highlighted.
  1. Select the ringtone you'd like to use from the list. They will play a preview of each when you select them. Select OK when you've found the one you like.
Ringtone selection with OK highlighted.

3. Contact Ringtone

You can assign a ringtone to a specific person on your contact list, so you'll know when they are calling without looking at your phone.

  1. Open Contacts.
Android Contacts.
  1. Select the contact you'd like to set a ringtone for.
Contact list with contact highlighted.
  1. Select Edit in the top-right.
Contact displayed with Edit highlighted.
  1. Select the Menu on the top-right.
Edit contact with Menu highlighted.
  1. Select Set ringtone.
Menu with Set ringtone highlighted.
  1. Select a ringtone you'd like to hear when this person calls. You will hear a preview when you select one. Select OK when you've chosen the one you like.
Ringtone selection with OK highlighted.