Manage macOS notifications

Stay focused and distraction-free while working on your Mac

- Alex Blake

IT WILL TAKE

> 10 minutes

YOU WILL LEARN

> How to tweak notifications and widgets to suit the way you work

YOU'LL NEED

> macOS 12 or later

Genius tip!

If you dismiss an alert by swiping it away, macOS stores it in the Notification Centre. You can take action on the notification from here.

With so many apps loaded on to our devices, it's easy to get overwhelmed with the sheer number of notifications fighting for our attention. That's particularly true on the Mac, a device where so many of us do our daily work - and where we really need to concentrate the most.

Luckily, macOS Monterey has several built-in features that can rein in the chaos and let you get back to the things that matter. From Focus mode to fine-grained notification controls, there are plenty of ways to get more control over the information thrown your way.

It's also worth looking at widgets, as these handy mini-apps can display pertinent information right from the Notification Centre, meaning you don't need to wade into each app every time you get an alert.

We've taken the plunge and explored each of these features to bring you the best in notification management. Put our tips into practice to restore some peace and quiet in your daily Mac life.

HOW TO Manage macos notifications

1 App-specific alerts