iOS 17: Change Your iPhone’s Default Alert Tone With These 3 Easy Steps

With the release of iOS 17 in September, Apple introduced a host of new features like StandBy mode and enhancements to iMessage. However, it wasn’t until the rollout of iOS 17.2 in December that users gained access to coveted additions such as the Journal app. Among the less-publicized features of the iOS 17 update was the newfound ability to modify your iPhone’s default notification alert tone.

Following the launch of iOS 17, some iPhone users expressed dissatisfaction online over Apple’s alteration of the default alert tone. Concerns ranged from the new tone’s inadequacy in waking users up during security alerts to disruptions in established caregiving routines for elderly relatives. With the release of iOS 17.2, users now have the option to tailor their default tone to better align with their preferences.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to changing your iPhone’s default notification tone:

Simple Steps to Customize Your Default Alert Tone

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap Sounds & Haptics.
3. Select Default Alerts.

Within this menu, you’ll have the opportunity to audition and select from a variety of familiar alert sounds, such as Tri-tone, or rediscover older tones like Bell by choosing “Classic” at the bottom. Alternatively, you can opt for “None” to silence your alert tone while retaining the haptic alert (vibration pattern) feature.

Additionally, you can customize your haptic alerts:

How to Personalize Your Haptic Alert Tone

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap Sounds & Haptics.
3. Select Default Alerts.
4. Tap Haptics.

Within this section, you can choose from an array of vibration patterns, including “Accent” for a brief, single vibration or “SOS,” which vibrates SOS in Morse code. Opting for “Synchronized” ensures seamless coordination between your haptics and alert tone.

For those seeking further customization, you can create a custom vibration pattern:

Crafting a Unique Vibration Pattern

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap Sounds & Haptics.
3. Select Default Alerts.
4. Tap Haptics.
5. Tap “Create New Vibration.”

On the subsequent screen, tap to generate a brief vibration pattern or press and hold for a longer, singular vibration. Once satisfied, tap “Save,” assign a name to your pattern, and it will automatically become your default alert haptic.