What are 'ringbacks'?
Ringbacks or ringback tones are the sounds that callers hear when they call you. A ringback replaces that boring dial tone the caller would normally hear.
Are ringbacks the same as apps?
No, they are not. An app or application can be downloaded to your phone. However, ringbacks are not downloaded to your phone. They are actually stored on your phone carrier's network. Therefore, the only way to install or enable a ringback tone on your phone is to purchase the ringback directly from your phone carrier (Verizon, or at&t, for example). After purchasing the ringback tone, your phone carrier will "activate" the tone and replace your current dial tone that callers hear when they call you with the your song of choice. The only way to change your ringback tone is through your phone carrier, as well.
Can I download ringbacks directly to my phone?
No. You cannot download ringbacks directly to your phone. Ringbacks are sold by your carrier (Verizon, AT&T, and so on). Your carrier will replace the dial tone on your phone with the ringback tone of your choice. Most carriers offer you the opportunity to buy several ringback tones and customize them for different callers. Perhaps you want your friends to hear your favorite hip hop song when they call you and you’d prefer your parents to hear a nice a different song. These are all customizable but must be done through your phone carrier.
How are ringback tones different from ringtones?
Ringtones are what you hear when someone calls you. So, you can change the ringtone on your phone for each caller. But ringback tones are what callers hear when they call you. The difference is important because you cannot change download ringback tones to your phone. You need to purchase them through your carrier.
How much do Ringbacks cost?
Each phone carrier sets their own prices. Some ringback tones packages are free with various other phone service packages. Some phone carriers sell individual ringbacks to you. Prices also vary depending on if the songs are popular, older, newer, etc.
Can I get ringbacks for free online?
Anyone telling you that you can download free ringbacks is not telling you the truth so beware. Ringbacks are controlled ONLY by your phone carrier so you cannot purchase ringback tones through independent websites. If you want to buy a ringback tone for your Verizon phone then you must purchase it through Verizon only. Same goes with all other carriers.
Can I buy ringbacks for the iPhone?
Yes, you can purchase ringback tones for the iPhone. But you must purchase them through your phone carrier. If you use Verizon, At&t or any other carrier then visit their website and purchase ringbacks directly through them.