Notifications are an important part of many apps and operating systems. They allow you to get alerts and updates even when you’re not actively using an app. However, sometimes notifications can stop working properly even when you have them turned on.
What are notifications?
Notifications are messages an app sends to inform you of events or changes. On phones, they typically appear as pop-ups on the screen, icons in the status bar, or sounds. On computers, they often show up in the lower right corner of the screen. Some examples of notifications include:
- New email or messages
- Calendar alerts
- Software updates
- Alerts from smart devices
- News updates
- Traffic alerts
Notifications are meant to make you aware of things you care about so you can take action. Without them, you’d have to constantly check apps manually to look for new information.
Why do my notifications stop working?
There are several possible reasons why notifications may not be working even when turned on:
Outdated software/app version
If you’re not running the latest version of an operating system or app, there could be bugs affecting notifications. Update to the newest versions to see if that fixes it.
Notification settings changed
Check the notification settings for both your device and the specific app. Sometimes an update may change the notification settings without you realizing it.
Do Not Disturb is on
The Do Not Disturb feature on many devices blocks notifications from appearing. Make sure this is disabled if you want to receive notifications.
App notifications are turned off
For each app, you need to enable notifications in the settings. Go into the app’s settings and make sure they are turned on.
Device notification settings are restrictive
Some devices let you restrict which apps can send notifications. Check your sound and notification settings to ensure the app has permission to notify you.
App is not running in the background
If you force close an app, it often can’t send notifications until you open it again. Keep apps running in the background if you need notifications.
Notification center is disabled
On some devices, the notification center itself can get disabled, preventing you from getting any notifications. Make sure it is enabled.
Out of storage space
If your device is low on storage space, it may block notifications to conserve resources. Try deleting unused apps and files to free up space.
connectivity issues
For notifications that require an internet connection, such as email or social media, check that you have a stable connection. Connect to WiFi or cellular data to resolve connectivity problems.
How to troubleshoot notification issues
If your notifications are hit-or-miss or not coming through at all, try these troubleshooting steps:
- Force close and reopen the app – this refreshes the app’s processes.
- Update or reinstall the app – this fixes bugs with older versions.
- Restart your device – a reboot clears memory issues.
- Check app permissions – make sure notifications are allowed.
- Check Do Not Disturb settings – disable when you need notifications.
- Check notification center settings – ensure the center is enabled.
- Toggle notification settings off and on – this resets them.
- Check device software update – update to latest version.
- Check available storage space – notifications may be blocked if low.
- Connect to reliable WiFi or cellular data – this ensures connectivity.
Notification troubleshooting by device
Here are some additional tips for troubleshooting notification issues on specific devices:
iPhone and iPad
- Make sure Notification Center is enabled in Settings > Notifications.
- Confirm notifications are turned on in Settings > Notifications > [App Name].
- Check Do Not Disturb settings have desired exceptions.
- Ensure notifications are allowed in Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions.
- Try resetting network settings under General > Reset to resolve connectivity issues.
Android devices
- Check notification access for the app in Settings > Apps & notifications > Advanced > App permissions.
- Make sure notifications are allowed for the app in Settings > Apps & notifications > [App Name].
- Confirm Do Not Disturb and battery optimization exemptions include the app.
- Clear app cache and data from device storage settings for the app.
- Check that notifications are enabled for the app account if applicable (e.g Gmail).
Mac computers
- Confirm notifications and badges are enabled in System Preferences > Notifications.
- Make sure the app is allowed to display notifications in System Preferences > Notifications > [App Name].
- Check Do Not Disturb settings under Notifications > Do Not Disturb.
- Try deleting caches for apps under Library > Caches.
Windows PCs
- Ensure notifications are allowed for the app in Settings > System > Notifications & permissions.
- Check notification settings for the app under Settings > Apps & features > [App Name].
- Disable Focus assist when you need notifications enabled.
- Make sure the app is not battery optimized in Settings > Battery > Battery optimization.
Platform | Notification Troubleshooting Steps |
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iPhone and iPad |
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Android devices |
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Mac computers |
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Windows PCs |
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Conclusion
Notifications failing to come through is a common problem with various causes depending on your device and settings. The key is methodically checking each notification source and troubleshooting according to the specific device ecosystem. Make sure to look at both device-wide notification settings as well as app-specific ones.
Enable disabled notification centers, check Do Not Disturb settings, toggle notification permissions, update software, clear app caches, and check connectivity. Notifications should start working properly again after identifying and resolving the specific issue hindering them on your device.