Apple is finally addressing one of the most persistent complaints from iPhone users. With iOS 27, the company is introducing separate volume controls for ringtones, alarms, and system sounds, a feature Android phones have offered for years. While the update was not a headline announcement at WWDC 2026, it represents a meaningful quality-of-life improvement for everyday iPhone use.
The change gives users more precise control over how loud different alerts and notifications sound, reducing the need to constantly adjust a single shared volume setting.
Update
According to reports following WWDC 2026, iOS 27 introduces independent volume sliders within the Sounds and Haptics section of the Settings app. Users can now manage volume levels separately for:
- Ringtones
- Alarms and timers
- Alerts and system sounds
Previously, iPhone users relied on a shared volume setting that applied across multiple sound categories, often forcing compromises. Lowering alert sounds could also reduce alarm volume, while increasing ringtone volume could make notifications uncomfortably loud.
Controls
The new controls allow broader categories of sounds to be adjusted independently, though they do not extend to individual alarms. Instead, users can fine-tune how loud alarms and timers are relative to ringtones or system sounds.
Apple has also added a new option called Match Ringtone Volume. When this setting is enabled, iOS behaves much like earlier versions by using a shared volume level. Turning it off unlocks the new independent controls for alarms, timers, alerts, and system sounds.
Limitations
Apple notes that the alarms and timers volume setting does not apply to Wake-Up alarms and certain other alerts that already have dedicated volume controls. These remain unchanged under the new system.
The alerts and system sounds category includes incoming message notifications as well as interface sounds such as keyboard clicks, camera shutter effects, and other system audio cues.
While some users may prefer even finer control, the new structure still offers more flexibility than previous versions of iOS.
Comparison
Android devices have long allowed users to adjust alarm, notification, ringtone, and media volumes separately. By adopting a similar approach, Apple brings iOS closer to a standard that many users already expect.
Although the implementation does not mirror Android exactly, it represents a significant shift for Apple, which has historically limited system-level customization in favor of simplicity.
Context
The new audio controls are part of a wider set of refinements in iOS 27. At WWDC 2026, Apple focused heavily on Apple Intelligence, updates to Siri’s AI capabilities, Photos improvements, expanded parental controls, and other software changes.
The volume control update was not highlighted prominently, but it directly addresses a long-standing usability issue that has frustrated users for years.
Availability
Apple has already released a developer beta of iOS 27. A public beta is expected next month, with a wider rollout planned later in the year alongside new iPhone models.
As with all beta software, features may change before the final release. However, early reports suggest the independent volume controls are likely to remain part of the finished update.
For many iPhone users, the change may seem minor at first glance. In daily use, however, it could eliminate a common annoyance and make managing alerts and alarms far more predictable.
FAQs
What new volume controls are in iOS 27?
Separate controls for ringtones, alarms, and system sounds.
Where are the new settings located?
In the Sounds and Haptics section of Settings.
Does this apply to individual alarms?
No, it applies to sound categories, not single alarms.
What is Match Ringtone Volume?
An option to keep using a shared volume setting.
When will iOS 27 be released?
A public beta is expected next month.
