How to make Android notifications quieter

Step by step

1. 30 sec

   Separate notification volume from media volume

   Open the Settings app and navigate to Sound & vibration. Toggle on 'Separate ring and notification volume' if available, or use the volume slider menu to ensure notification sounds are controlled independently of media playback.

   Note: Most modern Android versions allow you to adjust these volumes independently via the volume rocker on-screen menu.
2. 1 min

   Access Notification Categories

   Navigate to Settings, select Notifications, and tap App notifications. Select the specific application you wish to silence or quiet, then tap Notification categories to view granular control options.

   Note: If you do not see Notification categories, ensure the app is updated to the latest version.
3. 45 sec

   Set alerts to Silent

   Within the specific category, choose the alert type you want to change. Select Silent to ensure the notification appears in the notification shade without triggering a sound or vibration.

   Note: Changing this to Silent prevents the notification from interrupting your audio stream.
4. 30 sec

   Disable vibration for notifications

   Inside the Notification categories menu for an app, verify that the Vibration toggle is set to Off. This removes haptic feedback for that specific notification channel.

5. 1 min

   Implement Do Not Disturb schedules

   Go to Settings, select Notifications, and tap Do Not Disturb. Set a schedule or exceptions for People and Apps to ensure only critical notifications trigger sound during designated quiet periods.

   Note: Use 'Priority' settings to allow only specific contacts to bypass these restrictions.