Changing the notification sound on your Ring Doorbell app helps you personalize alerts and respond faster to visitors. This guide walks you through the process on both iOS and Android, covering device settings, app preferences, and troubleshooting tips to ensure your new sound works perfectly.
Key Takeaways
- Customize your alerts: You can change the notification sound directly in the Ring app to better suit your preferences or environment.
- Device-specific settings matter: Both your phone’s system settings and the Ring app must be configured correctly for the new sound to play.
- iOS and Android differ slightly: The steps vary between operating systems, so follow the instructions tailored to your device.
- Test after changing: Always trigger a test notification to confirm the new sound is working as expected.
- Use default or custom sounds: While Ring offers built-in tones, you can also use your phone’s custom notification sounds if supported.
- Update apps regularly: Keeping the Ring app and your phone’s OS updated prevents compatibility issues with sound settings.
- Troubleshoot common issues: If the sound doesn’t change, check Do Not Disturb, app permissions, or restart the app and device.
How to Change Notification Sound on Ring Doorbell App
If you’ve ever missed a delivery because your Ring doorbell notification was too quiet or blended in with other phone alerts, you’re not alone. One of the simplest ways to stay on top of visitors, packages, and security events is by customizing your Ring Doorbell notification sound. Whether you want something louder, more distinct, or just more fun, changing the alert tone can make a big difference in how quickly you respond.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through how to change the notification sound on the Ring Doorbell app—step by step. We’ll cover both iOS and Android devices, explain where to find the right settings, and offer troubleshooting tips if things don’t go as planned. By the end, you’ll have a personalized alert system that fits your lifestyle and ensures you never miss a ring again.
Let’s get started!
Why Change Your Ring Notification Sound?
Visual guide about How to Change Notification Sound on Ring Doorbell App
Image source: images.ctfassets.net
Before diving into the steps, it’s worth understanding why customizing your notification sound matters. Ring doorbells are designed to keep you connected to your home, but if the alert isn’t noticeable, it defeats the purpose.
Here are a few reasons to consider changing your notification tone:
- Better awareness: A unique or louder sound helps you distinguish Ring alerts from texts, emails, or social media notifications.
- Accessibility: People with hearing sensitivities may benefit from a tone that’s easier to hear or recognize.
- Personalization: Let’s be honest—some of the default sounds are a bit boring. Why not pick something that matches your personality?
- Multiple devices: If you have more than one Ring device (like a doorbell and a security camera), different sounds can help you identify which one triggered the alert.
For example, you might choose a cheerful chime for your front door and a more urgent tone for your backyard camera. This way, you know instantly where to look.
What You’ll Need
Before we begin, make sure you have the following:
- A smartphone or tablet with the Ring app installed (available on iOS and Android)
- Your Ring doorbell connected and functioning
- Access to your phone’s Settings app
- The latest version of the Ring app (check your app store for updates)
- A few minutes of uninterrupted time
Having everything ready will make the process smooth and stress-free.
Step-by-Step Guide: Changing Notification Sound on iOS
If you’re using an iPhone or iPad, follow these steps to change your Ring notification sound.
Step 1: Open the Ring App
Start by launching the Ring app on your device. You should see your dashboard with live views of your connected devices.
Tap on the three-line menu icon (also called the hamburger menu) in the top-left corner. This opens the main navigation menu.
From the menu, select “Device Settings”. Then, choose your Ring doorbell from the list of devices.
Step 2: Access Notification Settings
Once you’re in your doorbell’s settings, scroll down until you find the “Notifications” section. Tap on it to open notification preferences.
Here, you’ll see options like “Motion Alerts,” “Doorbell Presses,” and “Smart Alerts.” For this guide, we’ll focus on the general notification sound, which applies to most alerts.
Step 3: Choose a New Sound
Look for an option labeled “Notification Sound” or “Alert Tone.” Tap on it to see a list of available sounds.
Ring provides several built-in tones, such as:
- Classic Chime
- Modern Beep
- Gentle Ding
- Alert Tone
Tap on any sound to preview it. When you find one you like, select it. The app will save your choice automatically.
Pro Tip: If you don’t see a sound you love, you can use a custom tone from your iPhone. We’ll cover how to do that in a later section.
Step 4: Adjust iPhone System Settings
Here’s a crucial step many people miss: your iPhone’s system settings must allow the Ring app to play custom sounds.
Go to your iPhone’s Settings app. Scroll down and tap on “Ring” (the app should appear in the list of apps).
Under “Notifications,” make sure:
- Allow Notifications is turned on
- Sounds is enabled
- Show Previews is set to your preference (always, when unlocked, or never)
If “Sounds” is turned off, your custom Ring tone won’t play—even if you selected one in the app.
Step 5: Test the New Sound
Now it’s time to test your new notification sound.
Ask someone to press your doorbell, or use the “Test Notification” feature in the Ring app (found under Device Health or Notifications).
Listen carefully. Did you hear the new sound? If yes, great! If not, don’t worry—we’ll troubleshoot in a later section.
Step-by-Step Guide: Changing Notification Sound on Android
Android users, this section is for you. The process is similar to iOS but has a few key differences due to how Android handles app notifications.
Step 1: Open the Ring App
Launch the Ring app and tap the menu icon in the top-left corner. Go to “Device Settings” and select your doorbell.
Step 2: Navigate to Notifications
Scroll to the “Notifications” section and tap to open it. You’ll see options for different alert types.
Tap on “Notification Sound” or a similar option. You’ll see a list of default Ring tones.
Select the one you want. Android may show a preview when you tap it.
Step 3: Check Android App Notification Settings
Unlike iOS, Android gives you more control over app-specific notification channels. Here’s how to make sure your sound works:
Go to your phone’s Settings app. Tap on “Apps” or “Applications.”
Find and tap on “Ring” in the list. Then, select “Notifications.”
Make sure:
- Notifications are enabled
- The sound option is turned on
- No “Silent” or “Do Not Disturb” override is active
Some Android phones (like Samsung or Google Pixel) also have a “Notification Channels” feature. If you see it, tap into the Ring channel and confirm that sound is allowed.
Step 4: Use Custom Sounds (Optional)
Want to use a custom sound, like a song snippet or a funny noise? On Android, this is possible—but it requires a few extra steps.
First, download or create the audio file you want to use. Save it to your phone’s “Notifications” folder (usually found in Internal Storage > Notifications).
Then, go back to the Ring app’s notification sound menu. You should now see your custom file listed. Select it to use it as your alert tone.
Note: Not all Android devices support custom notification sounds for third-party apps. If you don’t see your file, your phone may not allow it.
Step 5: Test the Alert
Just like with iOS, test your new sound by triggering a doorbell press or using the test feature in the app.
Listen for the tone. If it plays correctly, you’re all set!
Using Custom Notification Sounds
While Ring offers a handful of built-in tones, you might want something more unique. Here’s how to use custom sounds on both platforms.
On iPhone
iPhones don’t allow third-party apps like Ring to use custom notification sounds directly from the app. However, you can work around this:
- Create or download a short audio file (under 30 seconds, in .m4r format for iPhone).
- Use iTunes or the Files app to add it to your iPhone’s ringtone library.
- Go to Settings > Sounds & Haptics > Ringtone and select your new tone.
- Unfortunately, this will change your phone’s default ringtone—not just Ring alerts.
Because of this limitation, most iPhone users stick with Ring’s built-in sounds or use a distinct default tone they can easily recognize.
On Android
Android is more flexible. Here’s how to add a custom sound:
- Save your audio file (MP3 or OGG format) to your phone.
- Move it to the Notifications folder (create one if it doesn’t exist).
- Open the Ring app and go to notification sound settings.
- Your file should appear in the list. Select it.
Popular choices include short clips from movies, animal sounds, or even voice recordings like “Someone’s at the door!”
Tip: Keep the file short and clear. Long or muffled sounds may not play well as alerts.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with the right steps, things can go wrong. Here’s how to fix the most common problems when changing your Ring notification sound.
Issue 1: Sound Doesn’t Change
If you selected a new tone but still hear the old one, check the following:
- App permissions: Make sure the Ring app has permission to send notifications and play sounds.
- Do Not Disturb mode: This can silence all alerts. Turn it off or allow Ring as an exception.
- Phone volume: Ensure your media and notification volumes are turned up.
- App cache: On Android, clear the Ring app’s cache (Settings > Apps > Ring > Storage > Clear Cache).
Issue 2: No Sound at All
If you’re not hearing any notification sound:
- Check if your phone is on silent or vibrate mode.
- Verify that “Sounds” is enabled in both the Ring app and your phone’s settings.
- Restart the Ring app and your device.
- Update the Ring app to the latest version.
Issue 3: Sound Plays but Is Too Quiet
Try these fixes:
- Increase your phone’s notification volume (not media or call volume).
- Move to a quieter environment to test.
- Use a louder or more distinct tone from the Ring app’s list.
- Consider using a smart speaker (like Alexa) to announce Ring alerts—this can be louder and more noticeable.
Issue 4: Custom Sound Not Showing Up
If your custom file isn’t appearing:
- Make sure it’s in the correct folder (Notifications, not Ringtones or Music).
- Check the file format—Android prefers OGG or MP3.
- Ensure the file isn’t corrupted. Try playing it in your music app.
- Restart your phone after adding the file.
Tips for Better Notification Management
Changing the sound is just one part of staying alert. Here are some bonus tips to improve your Ring experience:
- Use different sounds for different devices: If you have multiple Ring products, assign unique tones so you know which one triggered the alert.
- Enable Alexa announcements: If you have an Echo device, set it to announce Ring alerts with a voice message.
- Adjust motion sensitivity: Reduce false alerts by fine-tuning motion zones in the Ring app.
- Schedule quiet hours: Use Do Not Disturb or custom schedules to silence alerts at night—without changing the sound permanently.
- Share access with family: Let household members customize their own notification sounds for personal preference.
Conclusion
Customizing your Ring Doorbell notification sound is a simple yet powerful way to stay connected to your home. Whether you’re using an iPhone or Android device, the process is straightforward once you know where to look. By following the steps in this guide, you can choose a tone that’s loud, clear, and uniquely yours.
Remember, the key to success is checking both the Ring app settings and your phone’s system preferences. Don’t forget to test your new sound and troubleshoot if needed. With the right alert tone, you’ll never miss a visitor, package, or security event again.
Take a few minutes today to personalize your Ring notifications—you’ll wonder why you didn’t do it sooner.