Liquid Glass has not only changed the visual aspects of the iPhone and iPad, but it has also made some improvements in terms of sound. Apple has added seven new ringtones that you can set.
iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 introduce a brand new ringtone called “Little Bird” for the iPhone and iPad. In addition, Apple has released the classic ‘Reflection’ ringtone in six new versions. These additions are part of a broader audio improvement initiative implemented in conjunction with Liquid Glass’s visual redesign.
Reflection ringtone for iPhone
The ‘Reflection’ ringtone is one of the most recognizable sounds in Apple’s history. This ringtone was first introduced in 2017 as part of the iPhone X launch and has remained the default ringtone on iPhones ever since. The tone is known for its characteristic xylophone melody and clear, minimal sound profile that sounds professional and is well recognized in a variety of environments.
The six new Reflection variants
With iOS 26, Apple has introduced six new variations of this classic ringtone. All six keep the signature rhythm and basic motif of the original, but each adds their own unique character and energy. The six variants are:
- Dreamer: A longer and more musically dreamy remix of the standard ringtone
- Construction: A fuller sound with more dynamics and presence
- Pond: A more calm interpretation with resonance elements
- Pop: A more energetic, more uptempo version with pop-like characteristics
- Reflection: A subtle and light remix that is understated and elegant.
- Floating: Adds a lighter, more optimistic feel to the original motif.
Set ringtone
- Open Settings
- Navigate to ‘Hear and Feel’ or ‘Sounds’
- Tap ‘Ringtone’
- Choose ‘Reflection’
- Select your preferred choice
You can also listen to the new ringtones this way, so you immediately know what the variants sound like. In addition, you can also choose the brand new ringtone: Little bird.
Also available as an alarm clock
An important advantage is that all new Reflection variants can be used not only as a ringtone, but also as alarms. This means you can use the same ringtone for both incoming calls and for your alarm clock in the Clock app.
Personal custom ringtones
In addition to the standard ringtones, Apple has significantly simplified the process of creating personal and custom ringtones in iOS 26. Previously you had to work via GarageBand or use iTunes, but with iOS 26 you can do this directly, provided that the MP3 or M4A is shorter than 30 seconds and in the Files app on your iPhone or iPad.
- Open the Files app on your iPhone
- Find an MP3 or M4A audio file that is shorter than 30 seconds
- Press and hold the file and tap Part
- Tap ‘More‘ and select ‘Use as ringtone‘
- The ringtone is set immediately
You can then find the ringtone in Settings ▸ Hearing and Feeling ▸ Ringtone. It’s good to know that you can’t set Apple Music songs as ringtones for free, even with a subscription — Apple still sells 30-second music ringtones for $1.29 each through the iTunes Store app.