How to Easily Set Ringtone and Media Volumes Separately on iPhones

If you’ve ever struggled with your iPhone blasting TikTok videos at the same volume as your ringtone, you’re not alone. Adjusting ringtone and media volumes separately on iPhones has long been a feature users have clamored for. Thankfully, there’s now a brilliant workaround, thanks to Apple’s Shortcuts app and a nifty trick from Redditor /u/DC5tine.

Why You Can’t Adjust Media and Ringtone Volumes Separately by Default

By default, your iPhone ties media and ringtone volumes together. This means pressing the volume buttons on the side of your device affects both at the same time. While convenient for some, it can be frustrating if you want to keep your ringer loud for incoming calls but lower the volume for media playback like Instagram Reels or YouTube videos. Fortunately, with Apple’s Shortcuts app, there’s a way around this limitation.

Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to separating your iPhone’s media and ringtone volumes, giving you full control over how your device sounds in every situation.

Setting Up the Adjust Volume Shortcut

To achieve separate volume controls for ringtones and media, you’ll need to use the Adjust Volume shortcut, created by /u/DC5tine. Here’s how to set it up:

Step 1: Add the Shortcut to Your Shortcuts App

1. Install the Shortcuts App: If you haven’t already, download Apple’s Shortcuts app from the App Store.
2. Access the Shortcut: Visit this link to access the Adjust Volume shortcut.
3. Add to Shortcuts: Tap the link and select “Add Shortcut.” It will now appear in your Shortcuts app.

Step 2: Add the Shortcut to Your Home Screen

1. Open the Shortcuts app.
2. Locate the Adjust Volume shortcut by scrolling or searching.
3. Long-press the shortcut, tap Share, and choose Add to Home Screen.
4. Follow the prompts to create an easy-access icon for the shortcut on your iPhone’s home screen.

Using the Adjust Volume Shortcut

With the Adjust Volume shortcut installed, you can now change ringtone and media volumes independently. Here’s how to use it:

1. Tap the Adjust Volume icon on your home screen.
2. A pop-up window will appear with two options: Media and Ringtone.
3. Select the option you want to adjust.
4. Use the slider to set your desired volume level.
5. Tap Done to apply the changes.

What Makes This Shortcut Unique

• Independent Control: Media and ringtone volumes remain unaffected by each other, giving you more flexibility.
• Works with All Media: Use the shortcut to adjust volume for Instagram Reels, TikTok videos, YouTube, and more.
• Convenience: Quickly tweak your ringtone volume higher for calls or lower it during meetings without impacting your media playback settings.

Limitations of the Adjust Volume Shortcut

While the Adjust Volume shortcut is a game-changer, it does have a few limitations to keep in mind:

• Default Slider Setting: The slider always starts at 50%, as iOS doesn’t currently allow Shortcuts to access your iPhone’s existing volume levels. However, this doesn’t affect functionality—it’s simply a visual default.
• No Dynamic Adjustment: You’ll need to manually use the shortcut each time you want to change volumes independently.

Additional Tips for Managing iPhone Sound Settings

To enhance your iPhone sound management experience, consider these tips:

• Custom Ringtones: Set distinct ringtones for different contacts to make your ringtone management even more efficient.
• Do Not Disturb: Use Focus modes to temporarily silence ringtones or media during specific times or activities.
• Volume Balance: Explore the iPhone’s Accessibility settings to adjust audio balance for left and right channels if you frequently use headphones.

Above all, whether you’re a professional needing loud ringtones for work calls or a TikTok fanatic who loves scrolling quietly, this shortcut is perfect for anyone seeking better control over their iPhone’s audio settings. It’s also ideal for users who frequently toggle between personal and professional environments.