Google expands Do Not Disturb with 'Modes' in Android 15 beta

Android 15’s latest beta release offers a surprising new feature: “Modes.” With the second quarterly platform release (QPR2) of Android 15, Google has expanded its popular Do Not Disturb setting into a more customizable experience. The Modes feature allows users to create various profiles with specific rules for notifications, display settings, and more. This update is now available on the Android 15 QPR2 Beta for Pixel phones.

The new Modes menu, which appeared in the QPR2 Beta 1 update, introduces a level of personalization previously unavailable on Android. Users can craft unique Modes, each with a custom name, icon, and activation trigger. This flexibility means users can tailor their device’s behavior based on specific situations, such as work, sleep, or driving, allowing for a streamlined experience without constant adjustment. Previously, Android’s Do Not Disturb could be scheduled or customized, but the new Modes feature goes far beyond these settings.

Android 15 qpr2 Do Not Disturb with custom modes

Each Mode in Android 15 QPR2 Beta can be assigned a unique set of preferences for notifications and display settings. Users can select from 40 icons to represent their custom Modes, making it easy to identify active profiles at a glance on the status bar, lock screen, or always-on display. For example, one Mode could silence notifications during work hours, while another could allow alerts from family members only when sleeping.

Users can toggle Modes manually or set them to activate automatically with triggers, giving them more control over their Android experience. According to Android Authority, users can access the new Modes through the Settings app or a Quick Settings tile. This setup makes it easy to activate or switch between Modes as needed.

Android enthusiasts expected this level of customization in future versions, such as Android 16, slated for release in 2025. Instead, Google introduced it early in the Android 15 QPR2 Beta, with a full release anticipated by March 2025.

An exciting addition to Android’s toolkit

As reported by Android Authority, this development hints at a broader trend of increased flexibility and functionality within Android’s operating system. The introduction of Modes aligns with other customization tools, such as wallpapers and widgets, that make Android a go-to platform for those who prioritize personalization.

While still in beta, the feature holds promise for Android users eager for more options in managing notifications and screen behavior