Choose a Universal Ringtone for Calls

The first method for selecting a custom ringtone will set the track or tune for the entire system. What this means is that it’s the ringtone you will hear anytime someone calls, whether stranger or friend. The exception is if you designate a ringtone for a specific contact, then that tone plays instead. To set a universal ringtone, do the following:

Choose a Universal Notification Sound

Similar to choosing a universal ringtone for calls, you can set a system-wide tone for notifications and alerts. All text notification sounds, default app alerts and push notifications will use it. Alternatively, you can swipe from the bottom of the screen up when you’re on the homepage to open the app drawer. From there, you can choose Settings (gear icon). To choose a track or tone that’s not included in the system list select the + (plus) icon in the top right of the Ringtone list. This option allows you to choose a ringtone from the list of tracks and media currently stored on your phone. To set a universal notification sound, do the following: Unlike what you can do with ringtones, you cannot choose a tone that’s not included in the list from the settings menu. If you wish to use a notification sound that doesn’t appear in the list, ensure it’s stored locally in one of the Notifications folders on your phone’s storage. You can download or move the file to either the folder on your internal or external storage. It doesn’t matter which you use, it’s a matter of preference. Alternatively, you can swipe from the bottom of the screen up when you’re on the homepage to open the app drawer. From there, you can choose Settings (gear icon).

Choose a Custom Ringtone for a Single Contact

While the universal ringtone will play anytime, a custom ringtone will overrule it. That means you can set individual tones for each contact in your phone if you want. The melody can help you identify who is calling without even looking at your phone. To set a custom ringtone for a single contact, do the following:

Choose a Custom Ringtone for a Single App

Similar to the universal ringtone and custom ringtone situation, you can set a custom notification sound for each app. It’s also important to mention that some apps will send out multiple alerts or notifications, in which case you could customize each one.

From the available Ringtone list, select the + icon in the top right.This option will allow you to choose a ringtone from the list of tracks and media currently stored on your phone.

Custom Ringtones Must Be Stored Locally

Unlike what you can do with ringtones, you cannot choose a tone that’s not included in the list from the settings menu. If you wish to use a notification sound that doesn’t appear in the list, ensure it’s stored locally in one of the Notifications folders on your phone’s storage. You can download or move the file to either the folder on your internal or external storage; it doesn’t matter which you use, it’s a matter of preference. Alternatively, you can swipe from the bottom of the screen up when you’re on the homepage to open the app drawer. From there, you can choose Settings (gear icon).