How to Set Up Free Caller Tunes on Jio, Airtel, and Vi
Caller Ring Back Tunes (CRBT)—popularly known as Caller Tunes—replace the standard "tring-tring" ringtone that your callers hear when they dial your number with a song, dialogue, or custom message of your choice. A decade ago, telecom operators charged a hefty monthly premium (around ₹30/month) just to keep this service active. Today, thanks to heavy competition, almost all unlimited prepaid and postpaid plans come with free Caller Tune subscriptions bundled in.
In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the exact steps to search for, activate, and deactivate Caller Tunes across India's top three telecom networks using their official music streaming applications.
1. How to Set Up JioTunes (Reliance Jio)
Jio was the pioneer in making Caller Tunes completely free for all its users. You can set a JioTune using either the MyJio app or the JioSaavn music app.
Method A: Using the MyJio App
- Download and open the MyJio app on your smartphone.
- Log in using your Jio mobile number and verify via OTP.
- On the home screen, look at the bottom navigation bar and tap on JioTunes (or search for it in the top search bar).
- Browse through the categories, top charts, or use the search icon to find your favorite song.
- Tap the 'Set JioTune' button next to the song. You will receive an immediate SMS confirmation, and the tune will be active within 15 minutes.
Method B: Using the JioSaavn App
- Download the JioSaavn app and log in with your Jio number.
- Search for the song you want to use.
- Open the song player. Right below the album art, you will see a button labeled 'Set JioTune'.
- Tap it, listen to the preview snippet, and hit 'Set'.
2. How to Set Up Airtel HelloTunes
Airtel has partnered with their in-house music streaming app, Wynk Music, to provide HelloTunes. As long as you are on an active unlimited recharge plan, HelloTunes are completely free to set and change.
Steps to Activate via Wynk Music:
- Download the Wynk Music app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
- Register/Log in using your active Airtel mobile number.
- On the top right corner of the app's home screen, tap the HelloTunes icon (it usually looks like a musical note with a phone receiver).
- You can browse the curated HelloTunes list or search for any specific track.
- Tap on the song, listen to the preview, and click 'Set HelloTune'.
- Airtel HelloTunes require periodic renewal. They are usually valid for 30 days, after which you must open the Wynk app and click 'Renew' to keep the tune active, otherwise it reverts to the standard ringtone.
3. How to Set Up Vi Caller Tunes (Vodafone Idea)
Vi offers Caller Tunes directly through the main Vi App. However, unlike Jio and Airtel, Vi's free caller tune offerings are sometimes restricted depending on your specific recharge tier. Premium users get unlimited changes, while basic users might have to pay a nominal fee for certain premium songs.
Steps to Activate via the Vi App:
- Open the official Vi App and log in with your number.
- On the home screen, navigate to the Caller Tunes tab (usually found in the top carousel or bottom menu).
- Search for the song, artist, or movie you want.
- Tap on the song. The app will show you a preview and clearly display if the tune is "Free" or if a monthly charge applies.
- Click 'Set'. You will receive an activation SMS shortly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I deactivate or remove a Caller Tune?
For Jio: Open the MyJio app, go to the JioTunes section, select 'Active JioTune', and click 'Deactivate'. Alternatively, send an SMS with the text STOP to 56789.
For Airtel: Open Wynk Music, go to the HelloTunes section, tap on your current active tune, and select 'Stop HelloTune'.
For Vi: Open the Vi App, navigate to the Caller Tunes section, go to your profile, and select 'Deactivate'. Alternatively, SMS STOP to 155223.
Can I set a specific Caller Tune for a specific contact?
Yes, some operators allow "Special Caller Tunes." For example, in the JioSaavn app, after selecting 'Set JioTune', there is often an option to set it for 'All Callers' or 'Special Callers' where you can pick a specific number from your contact list.
Will my Caller Tune work while I am on International Roaming?
No. When you are traveling abroad and connected to a foreign network, your caller tune will temporarily stop working. Callers will hear the standard international dialing tone.