Many apps send notifications that aren’t urgent or useful. Turning these off will reduce distractions without requiring you to delete the app or stop using it altogether.
Why fewer notifications improve focus
Notifications interrupt focus. Over time, frequent, low-value alerts add mental noise that makes it harder to notice the notifications that actually matter.
Even subtle vibrations pull your attention away from what you’re doing, regardless of importance. Reducing unnecessary alerts lowers how often your phone demands your attention in the first place.
How to turn off app notifications
Turn off notifications on iPhone and iPad (iOS)
Turn notifications on or off in Settings > App > (Name of app) > Notifications, and toggle Allow Notifications off for apps you rarely use — support.apple.com
Turn off notifications on Android
Go to Settings > Apps & notifications > Notifications, choose the app, and turn notifications off or adjust which alerts it can send — support.google.com
A simple way to decide what to turn off
Disable notifications from apps where:
- Nothing changes if you see it later
- Alerts are promotional or repetitive
- You usually open the app manually anyway
Keep notifications for messages, time-sensitive reminders, or anything that truly requires immediate action.