T-Mobile Launches Custom Ringback Tone Service

Claiming that custom ringtone services have been a big hit, T-Mobile said Wednesday it has launched a service that enables subscribers to use custom ringback tones, which is the sound callers hear when they dial a number.

T-Mobile says its CallerTunes is the first such service to be launched nationwide. The company is teaming with several record companies, including Sony BMG, Universal Music Group and Warner Music Group to provide music to replace the usual switchboard tone. It said music from many popular recording artists will be available for ringback tones.

Users will be able to use as many as eight different music clips and can assign specific songs to play when specific individuals call.

The service will be free for a short period of time and then will cost $1.49 monthly plus $1.99 for each song used.