Android notifications are a mess, but this free open source app helps me fix them

Android notifications have been a headache even after the launch of Android 17, with features like Cooldown and battery saver adding to the confusion. Users often find some notifications going missing, social media spam flooding their screens, and Google failing to provide system-level filtering that scans notification content. Concerned about privacy, the author discovered the free, open-source app DoNotNotify, which uses regex-based filtering to manage incoming notifications.

Users can write rules in the app, allowing, blocking, or stacking notifications as needed. The app is gaining popularity as more Android users seek granular settings beyond the native controls. After granting necessary permissions, DoNotNotify scanned the device and added blocker rules for popular apps like Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and Netflix.

Users can create rules for specific notifications or modify pre-built ones in the Rules tab. The app offers three main tabs - History, Rules, and Blocked - allowing users to view every notification that hits their phone. Configuration is surprisingly easy, and users have control over what gets blocked. DoNotNotify also has settings for history retention, rule export/import, community-made rule lists, and support.

If the app doesn't work after initial installation, users can force stop the app or restart their device. Battery optimization may be a culprit, as Android may limit background running time even after removing restrictions.