Most new phones these days come with a built-in Game Mode which lets you snooze notifications and block calls when you are gaming. All you have to do is enable it, and that’s pretty much it. But if not, the following methods will let you enjoy your gaming time without any distractions. We will be exploring two methods. While the first one automates the whole process of switching the DND mode on when you launch your gaming apps, the second method is a manual process, although a slightly different one.
Method 1: Using MacroDroid
For this method, we will be taking the aid of an automation app named MacroDroid. This app is similar to Tasker. However, the interface is simple and uncomplicated so creating scripts and tasks is a child’s play. If you know the structure of the job at hand, all you need to do is craft a flowchart and recreate the same in MacroDroid. Similar to most macros, you’ll need a trigger or an action to set the macro in motion. In our case, switching the DND mode on is the action, whereas launching the game app is the trigger. Download MacroDroid Let’s see how to automate this task of disabling notifications while gaming. Step 1: Tap on Add Macro to add your first trigger. Now, tap on Applications > Application Launched/Closed > Application Launched. Select the names of the game from the list. All you have to do is check the boxes and hit the OK button. Step 2: Now it’s time to add the action. Tap on the Actions tab, scroll down, and select Volume and tap on the first option (Priority Mode/Do Not Disturb). That will prompt you with a window. Select Allow Priority Notifications and hit OK. Since MacroDroid will make a couple of changes to the built-in settings, you’ll need to provide some permissions. Step 3: Once done, all you have to do is hit the tick icon and name the macro. From now on whenever you launch the game, your phone will switch to the DND mode. Cool, right? However, this method is incomplete if you forget to switch back to the normal mode after you stop playing any game. We will need a second macro to do this switch. As you might have guessed, it will be the reverse of the first one. Step 4: To create it, tap on Add Macro. Only this time, instead of creating an application launch event, we will be creating an app close event. Tap on Triggers > Applications > Application Launched/Closed > Application Closed, and select the games again. Step 5: Next, tap on Actions, scroll down to Volume and Priority Mode, and select Allow All. Step 6: Save the macro and give it a name, and that’s about it. From now on whenever you sit down to play, there will be no notifications to disturb you anymore.
Few Things to Keep in Mind
For the process to run smoothly, you must keep certain things in mind. The first is to remove MacroDroid from the list of Battery Optimized apps. For those unaware, the system kills off apps that consume more battery or are lying inactive for an extended period to save battery juice. To do so, go to the phone settings and navigate to Settings > Battery > Battery Optimization, find MacroDroid and select Don’t Optimize. Another thing to keep in kind is that MacroDroid inherits your phone’s DND mode. So if your phone’s DND mode is modified to include heads-up notifications during messages and calls, then MacroDroid won’t be able to do much. To view your phone’s DND settings, search for Do Not Disturb in Settings and check the settings for Calls, Sounds, and Notifications. The ideal settings should be None for calls and No Visuals for notifications. Once all these settings are in place, rest assured, you can enjoy a distraction-free gaming session.
Method 2: Through Focusbot
Focusbot is an unreleased app which blocks and mute notifications for the duration the app is enabled. And it doesn’t end there. It also bundles all the notifications under a single roof for you to visit them later. There are also a couple of handy customization features that come along with this app. We loved the AutoReply feature using which you can send a text message for every call and text you’ve missed in that duration. The app is meant for those who seek the peace of mind in this chaotic world (Ok, I went a bit too far here). And what better way to get the most out any app if you can complete two objectives at your convenience. Download Focusbot Once it is set up, all you need to do is tap on the Focus ON button and start gaming. And once you switch the Focus mode off, all the notifications will be there in the app for you to see.
Game Away
Notifications are an important part of any smart system. However, they can get distracting at times, especually during a gruelling gaming sessions. And these two methods will buy you some time from all the interruptions and diversions. Speaking of games, have you checked our downloaded PUBG wallpapers for your PC and phones?
