Aside from text messaging, ringtones are probably one of the most popular features used on cell phones today as people try to personalize their device. For this reason, understanding some basic information about ringtones such as what types are available, where to get them, and what to be aware of when obtaining them can be important for those less familiar with the use of non-standard ringtones.

The ringtones on a cell phone are simply the sound that is heard alerting someone to an incoming call. Alert tones are the name given to the tone heard alerting a user to a text message or voice mail. Cell phone users like to use unique, personalized ringtones to help them identify when their cell phone, versus another person's phone, is ringing in a crowd. They can also be used to identify specific callers when the user sets up different ringtones for the various people in their contact list. Thus, the variety of ringtones in use is not just for vanity, but indeed has a functional aspect.

There are many different terms used to describe the various types of cell phone ringtones, but the most common types include:

Monotone: These ringtones are a single note; the audio quality is quite limited.

Polyphonic: These ringtones consist of multiple tones playing simultaneously to form a melody. The audio quality is significantly better than with monotone ringtones.

MP3: These ringtones are actually MP3 audio files; excerpts from songs.

Real Sound: These ringtones are not music but are a wide variety of sounds such as horns, sirens, bird calls, racing engines, etc.

Most cell phones come with pre-loaded ringtones which the user can select. In addition, cell phone users can download additional ringtones from the internet, compose their own, or send them to friends. To download ringtones a user simply needs an internet capable cell phone and a plan that allows internet access.

The simplest way to download ringtones to a cell phone is to go to the wireless provider's site and select the ringtones from the same carrier providing the cellular service and cell phone itself. This is the simplest method because it is easy to determine which ringtones are compatible with the particular cell phone model used, obtain accurate instructions, and assure that there is no malware involved. Most wireless carriers will charge a small fee for ringtones without any further obligations to purchase more.

An online search on "free ringtones" will also reveal a huge number of sites where additional ringtones can be downloaded. DADA Mobile and Jamster are two such sites. However, it is important to consider several things when going this route:

Will the ringtone downloaded be free from malware?

Will the ringtone work with the particular cell phone model and network?

Has the site observed applicable copyright laws?

Read the fine print. Even with free ringtones, the user needs to be aware of whether or not they are committing to making future purchases for their cell phone.

Not all cell phones are capable of supporting MP3 file ringtones. The software necessary for downloading the files is included with some cell phone models, while for others it would need to be downloaded from the internet.

Some cell phones have a feature to allow users to compose their own ringtone. Reading through the owners manual should provide the user with this information and provide instructions on how to accomplish the task. For cell phones without this capability, the other option is to obtain the computer software necessary for composing a ringtone and to then download it to the cell phone. Data cables or some type of internet connection would obviously be necessary to complete this process.

Ringtones are not a necessity, but they are also useful in some situations and certainly can add some personality to a cell phone. Luckily the cost is generally minimal as long as the user assures they are not making a commitment to ongoing purchases.