Stay Focused: How to Use Do Not Disturb Mode on Your Smartphone
Smartphones have become essential companions in our daily routines. Whether it’s shopping, banking, or staying connected, they simplify countless tasks. However, with this convenience also comes constant distraction. Imagine being deeply focused on work, studying for an exam, or driving — a buzzing phone call or endless app notifications can easily pull you away from the task at hand.
While it might seem easy to just switch your phone to Airplane mode, doing so cuts off all connectivity, which isn't always ideal. That’s where Do Not Disturb (DND) Mode comes in handy.
DND mode allows you to silence notifications and mute incoming calls that could break your concentration during important moments. It acts as a filter, preventing unnecessary interruptions while still allowing you to stay connected. Most smartphones even let you customise DND settings for specific apps like WhatsApp, LinkedIn, or Bumble. When DND is activated, you’ll still receive notifications — they just won’t make a sound.
If you’re tired of being constantly interrupted, here’s a simple guide to setting up DND on your Android device.
How to Enable DND Mode on Android:
Keep in mind that the setup may vary slightly depending on your phone's brand, but the core process remains consistent. Here’s how you can activate DND:
- Open the Settings app on your device.
- Use the search bar to look up "Do Not Disturb" or find it quickly in the Quick Settings menu.
- Toggle DND mode on. From here, you can also schedule and customise it according to your needs.
- To create a schedule, tap on 'Schedule', hit the plus (+) button, and select an activity type — such as working, studying, or sleeping — along with your preferred timings.
- Add exceptions by choosing specific contacts (like your boss or spouse) or apps from which you still want to receive notifications.
Enable the "Repeated Calls" feature — this allows calls from the same number to ring through if they call again within three minutes, which can be critical in emergencies. You can also mute media sounds while DND is active for an even more peaceful experience.