Prioritize Connections: How to Allow Calls & Texts in Do Not Disturb Mode on Your Pixel
Do you ever need focused time but worry about missing crucial messages? Your Pixel phone offers a clever solution: the ability to selectively allow contacts to break through Do Not Disturb (DND) mode.This ensures you stay reachable in critical situations while maintaining your desired level of concentration.
Understanding Do Not Disturb & Prioritized Contacts
Traditionally, Do Not Disturb silences all notifications. However, life isn’t always all-or-nothing. You likely have people – family, close friends, or colleagues – whose messages deserve immediate attention, even when you’re trying to disconnect. Pixel’s feature lets you create a ”starred” contact list that bypasses DND’s silencing effect.
Setting Up Your Starred Contacts
Here’s how to configure your Pixel to prioritize specific contacts:
- Open your Phone app.
- Tap on the “Contacts” tab.
- Select the contact you want to add to your starred list.
- Tap the star icon. This adds them to your prioritized list.
Repeat these steps for everyone you want to be able to reach you during DND.
How It Works: Breaking Through the Silence
When Do Not Disturb is enabled, notifications from your starred contacts will appear as usual. They won’t be silenced or hidden. I’ve found this incredibly useful during meetings or when I’m deeply focused on a task.
However, remember that while the notification appears, your phone won’t automatically switch out of DND. If you need complete silence, you’ll still need to set your phone to silent mode in addition to enabling Do Not Disturb.
Beyond Starred Contacts: Other DND Options
Pixel offers further customization of Do Not Disturb:
* allow all contacts: This essentially disables the core benefit of DND,letting everyone through.
* Edit priority conversations: Fine-tune which app conversations are considered high priority. This requires more ongoing management.
* Schedules: Automate DND based on time of day or recurring events.
Why This Feature Matters
This functionality is a game-changer for anyone seeking a balance between focus adn accessibility. It’s perfect for:
* Deep work sessions: Minimize distractions while remaining available for emergencies.
* Meetings and classes: Stay present without missing urgent communications.
* Personal time: Enjoy uninterrupted moments, knowing loved ones can still reach you if needed.
Ultimately, Pixel’s prioritized contact feature empowers you to control your notifications and reclaim your attention, without sacrificing crucial connections.It’s a small setting with a big impact on your digital wellbeing.
