Android 15: Google Enhances ‘Do Not Disturb’ Mode – Here’s What You Can Do

Google is gradually transforming the Android operating system, making notable adjustments not just behind the scenes but also for user interface and experience. The upcoming update, anticipated for release in March 2025, will see the long-familiar “Do Not Disturb” mode evolve into a more versatile feature called “Modes.”

Introducing Android 15: The Evolution of “Do Not Disturb” into “Modes”

Previously, the “Do Not Disturb” mode primarily acted as a way to limit all forms of notifications, including messages, calls, alarms, and app alerts. Users could make minor adjustments, such as scheduling the mode to activate during specific times or allowing certain notifications to come through. However, the functionality was somewhat limited.

Android 15 QPR2: Transition from “Do Not Disturb” to “Modes”. (Screenshots: WebSearchNews)

With the second quarterly platform release of Android 15, known as Android 15 QPR2, Google is introducing enhancements that allow users to create multiple variants of the “Do Not Disturb” mode, each with its own distinct rules.

What’s New: Enhanced Features in “Modes”

Upon installing the beta update on a Pixel smartphone, we noticed that the traditional “Do Not Disturb” functionality had been replaced with the new “Modes” feature. Accessing this new functionality is as simple as a long press on the shortcut within the quick settings menu. Users will find not only the classic “Do Not Disturb” mode but also a “Bedtime” feature, previously located under the Digital Wellbeing section, which mutes the device and shifts the display to grayscale.

Android 15 QPR2: Users can soon customize their own filters with new Modes. (Screenshots: WebSearchNews)

The introduction of these new Android 15 modes significantly broadens the capabilities of the previous options. Users can set different filters for recurring situations, customizing each mode with a unique name and icon that appears in both the status bar and lock screen when active. For instance, Google will offer a dedicated mode for driving.

“Modes”: Users can specify which contacts and apps can interrupt the mode. (Screenshots: WebSearchNews)

Customizable Features for a Tailored Experience

Within the settings, users have the option to create a schedule for each mode, ensuring it activates automatically at designated times. Various notification filters allow users to determine who can still contact them by phone or message during these modes.

Similar rules apply for applications, which means that social media notifications won’t distract you during work hours. Moreover, users can set exceptions for alarms, calendar events, and reminders.

You can also determine how notifications are displayed within the modes. (Screenshots: WebSearchNews)

Additionally, these modes will offer “Display Settings,” allowing users to control how filtered notifications appear. Users can toggle grayscale content, deactivate the Always-on Display, and more.

Besides the automatic activation feature, modes can also be manually adjusted through the “Settings” or the new “Modes” tile in the quick settings. A long press on this tile brings up an overlay for further customization.

Initially, these new modes are expected to debut on Google’s Pixel smartphones, but it is likely that other manufacturers will soon adopt this functionality as well.