Create AAC version is greyed out in iTunes version 12.6.2.20

It was an MP3.

Had to call into apple support for this one. Here are the steps that I can remember:

1. You must use the "File>Import File" command. You can't just put it in the folder via windows explorer.
2. You have to convert the file to AAC thru the "File>Convert>Create AAC Version" You can't right click and do it under options anymore (Even the Apple support person thought it was ridiculous)
3. Once in your library as an AAC, if you want it to be a ringtone you need to change the file type from a .m4a to a .m4r using windows explorer.
4. From there, you can import it into the iphone, but here is the kicker... You have to do it from the iphone page in itunes, you cannot directly import it from the main or home screen in itunes (again, ridiculous). You have to drag and drop from windows explorer.

See Create and manage ringtones in iTunes. iTunes 12.7 changed the rules somewhat, but those initial steps should be the same. Are you sure you're trying to work with a locally stored music file that is DRM free?

tt2

What is the source format that you're converting from? Is the file marked as hidden or read only in the file system? Will it play in iTunes? Can you use some other software for the conversion such as Audacity?

tt2

Yep, much of this is covered in Create and manage ringtones in iTunes. Most iTunes menu commands only work on what is already in the library. With the exception of the Automatically Add to iTunes folder iTunes won't notice content that you place inside the media folder.

tt2

I followed the first 3 Steps.

Still the option "Create AAC version" is greyed out.

What to do?

I am so fed up with IOS.

Create a ringtone in iTunes

1. Select a track to use as the source. You cannot use an Apple Music item, or anything that is in the cloud.
2. On the Get Info > Options tab set start and stop times less than 40 seconds apart.
3. Under Edit (Win) or iTunes (Mac) > Preferences > General tab > Import Settings choose AAC Encoder > High Quality 128k.
4. Use File > Convert > Create AAC version.
5. Reset the start and stop times on the original track.
6. Right-click on the new copy and click Show in Windows Explorer or Finder.
7. Delete the new entry from the library without sending to the recycle bin/trash.
8. Change the file extension from .m4a to .m4r. (You may need to adjust folder options to see the extensions)
9. Move the file into the Automatically Add to iTunes folder inside your media folder, it will be added to the Tones section of the library.
10. If you don't see Tones in the drop down media selection menu click Edit Menu at the bottom and add it.
11. Connect the device, select its icon next to the media selection menu, then the device's Tones tab, and set the sync options.
12. Sync the device.

tt2

I have the same issue. Apple support can't even figure it out. It is a locally stored music file that is DRM free.

Too bad I couldn't find that post to begin with...

Thanks

You're welcome, at least it should be easier next time. 🙂

tt2