Minimize Distractions: Control Smartphone & Computer Notifications
The Pervasive Problem of Digital Notifications
Modern smartphones and computers are designed to deliver a continuous stream of notifications. Applications frequently seek to engage users through constant alerts.
These alerts can be significantly disruptive, interrupting focus and hindering the attainment of a productive “flow state” during work.
The Dual-Edged Sword of Notifications
Such a high volume of notifications represents a considerable distraction. They can manifest as incessant buzzing or chiming throughout the day, impacting one’s ability to fully engage with life.
Conversely, the sheer number of alerts can lead to notification fatigue. This results in users ignoring all notifications, potentially causing them to overlook crucial information.
Ultimately, managing notifications effectively is key to maintaining both productivity and awareness of genuinely important updates.
iPhone and iPad Notifications
Related: Managing Notifications on iPhone and iPad
Within Apple’s iOS operating system, every notification received is directly linked to the application that sent it. Applications do not automatically have the ability to send notifications upon installation; they must first request your permission. Should you prefer not to receive notifications from a particular application, be sure to select "Don't Allow" when prompted.
If an application is sending an excessive number of notifications, its notification settings can be adjusted. Access the Settings application and select Notifications. A list of all installed applications with notification permissions will be displayed. Tap on an application to customize its settings.
iOS provides extensive options for customizing your notification experience. To completely disable notifications from an app, simply toggle off the "Allow Notifications" switch. Further customization is also available.
For instance, you might wish to see a badge on an app icon indicating new content, but avoid audible alerts, pop-up banners, or notifications in the Notification Center. In this case, disable "Show in Notification Center," "Sounds," "Show on Lock Screen," and "Alert Style When Unlocked," while leaving "Badge App Icon" enabled. This allows you to see a discreet counter on the app’s icon without the typical notification interruptions.
Related: Prioritizing Email Notifications on Your iPhone
Certain applications may offer even more detailed notification controls within their own settings. For example, you could choose to receive email notifications only from family members or your supervisor, or for specific, important email threads. This prevents being inundated with less critical newsletters and updates.
Refer to our guide on receiving notifications for only the emails you care about on your iPhone to learn how to refine your email notifications without missing crucial communications.
Android
Concerning notification management, Android offers users extensive customization options. Initially, all installed applications with notification permissions are permitted to deliver alerts.
However, Google provides a mechanism to disable notifications on a per-app basis. This allows for granular control over which applications can interrupt you.
Should an unwanted notification appear, a long press within the notification drawer grants access to the app’s information. On Android 4.x, selecting "App Info" will redirect you to the relevant settings. On Android 5, tapping the "i" button achieves the same result.
This direct access to app information or notification settings enables you to disable notifications directly from the source. This is particularly useful when identifying notifications disguised as advertisements.
Alternatively, on Android 5, navigate to the Settings menu, then select "Sound & notification," followed by "App notifications." Selecting an application and choosing "Block" will effectively silence its alerts.
Controlling Notifications Within Apps
Beyond system-level controls, many applications offer their own notification settings. These settings typically provide more detailed options for customization.
You can often refine which types of notifications you receive directly within the app itself. This allows for precise control over the alerts you deem important.
Gmail on Android is a prime example of this granular control. It allows users to specify notifications based on email labels.
By creating filters and directing important emails to specific labels, you can ensure you only receive notifications for the messages you prioritize. For a comprehensive guide, refer to resources on managing Gmail notifications on Android.
- App-Specific Settings: Offer the most detailed control.
- System-Level Controls: Provide a quick way to block all notifications from an app.
- Label-Based Filtering (Gmail): Enables selective notifications for important emails.
Managing notifications effectively can significantly reduce distractions and improve focus. Utilizing both system-level and app-specific settings is key.
Windows
Related: Methods for Customizing and Adjusting Your System Tray Icons within Windows.
Unlike mobile operating systems, Windows lacks centralized, system-wide notification management. Should a desktop application be generating unwanted notifications, adjustments can be made directly within its configuration settings.
Alternatively, a right-click on the taskbar allows access to its Properties. From there, the Customize button adjacent to the Notification area can be selected. This enables the option to "Hide icon and notifications" for applications from which you wish to suppress system notification pop-ups.
It’s important to note that this method primarily affects standard system notification bubbles. Many applications employ their own, distinct notification styles.
Managing Universal App Notifications
For Windows 8 "Store apps"—now frequently referred to as "universal apps"—notification control is achieved through the Change PC settings application.
Access this application by pressing the Windows Key + C, or by swiping in from the right edge of the screen to reveal the Charms bar. Select Settings, then choose Change PC settings.
Navigate to Search and apps > Notifications to manage which applications are permitted to display notifications.
This allows for granular control over app-specific notification behavior.
Mac OS X
The majority of applications on a Mac utilize the operating system’s built-in notification service. This ensures notifications are presented consistently and are also accessible within the Notification Center.
Consequently, a centralized location is provided for managing these alerts, mirroring the functionality found on iOS devices.
To configure these settings, navigate to the Apple menu located at the screen's top. Then, select System Preferences and click on the Notifications icon.
Notification Customization
A comprehensive list of applications authorized to deliver notifications will be displayed. Each application’s notification behavior can be tailored to your preferences, similar to iOS.
For instance, you can opt to suppress audible alerts and banner displays, while still retaining badge app icons on the Dock. This provides a subtle reminder to review the application when convenient.
Managing notifications effectively can significantly reduce distractions. Customizing these settings allows users to maintain focus while remaining informed.
Chrome OS and the Chrome Browser
Modern web browsers are increasingly incorporating notification systems. Within Chrome, users have the ability to manage website notification permissions. This is achieved by accessing the Chrome Notification Center icon, typically found in the system tray area of your operating system.
To customize these settings, simply click the gear icon. From there, you can deselect the applications and websites from which you no longer wish to receive notifications.
Managing Notifications Through Chrome Settings
Similar controls are also available directly within Chrome’s settings. Navigate to the Settings page and utilize the search function to locate "notifications."
Clicking the "Content settings" button will then lead you to the notification management area. Select "Manage exceptions" to review and revoke permissions granted to specific websites.
Important Note: If a website address appears in italics, it indicates that the permission was granted by a Chrome extension or application you have installed.
Understanding Notification Permissions
Permissions assigned by extensions or applications require modification within those respective programs, rather than directly through Chrome’s notification settings.
Effectively controlling notifications helps minimize distractions and maintain a focused computing experience. Chrome provides robust tools for users to tailor their notification preferences.
Linux Desktops
A universal system-level configuration for notifications isn't available across Linux desktop environments. Should you receive notifications from a specific application that you wish to suppress, adjustments must be made within that application’s individual settings.
Locate the application's settings screen and disable the notification feature to prevent further alerts.
Gaining control over device notifications is essential for a productive experience. While disabling all notifications isn't necessary, minimizing interruptions from irrelevant alerts can significantly improve focus.
It’s important to avoid a constant stream of beeps and unnecessary information that can deplete attention and mental well-being.
The trend suggests that wearable devices, such as smartwatches, may soon become another source of constant notifications. Be proactive in managing these alerts should you choose to utilize a smartwatch.
Image Credit: Johan Larsson on Flickr