How to Turn Off Alexa Notifications

Introduction

Notifications for Amazon Alexa can not only get annoying, they can ruin surprises. For example, if you order a Valentine’s Day gift for your spouse, you don’t want them to ask Alexa for the status of your deliveries and the voice assistant blurts out what should have been a surprise. Thankfully, Amazon makes it easy to turn off Alexa notifications so you don’t feel like the voice assistant is constantly spamming you, and so you don’t have to run the risk of any surprises being ruined. Examples of all instructions in the steps can be seen in the YouTube video below.

Steps to Turn Off Alexa Notifications

1. Launch the Alexa app on your iPhone, iPad or Android device. Your Alexa home screen appears.
2. Tap the “Menu” icon in the upper left corner of the screen. A menu flies in from the left side of the screen.
3. Select “Settings” in the menu. The Settings screen appears.
4. Tap “Notifications” in the Settings menu. The Notifications screen appears.
5. Tap “Reminders” to open the Reminders menu where you can turn reminder notifications for your iPhone, iPad or Android device on and off.
6. Tapping “Amazon Shopping” opens a menu where you can control a variety of notifications associated with Amazon Shopping. In the Delivery Notifications section you can choose whether or not you want to receive notifications when ordered Amazon items are out for delivery or have been delivered. In the Give Ordered Items Titles section you can choose whether or not Alexa says the name of ordered Amazon items within delivery notifications and when users ask an Alexa device where your ordered items are. The Reorder Notifications section is where you can toggle notifications on and off for notifications when Alexa thinks your running low on items you frequently order. And finally, in the Product Questions and Answer Notifications section, you can choose whether or not to receive notifications when either someone answers a question you’ve asked about a product, or when customers have questions about products you’ve purchased.

Back at the Notifications menu, you can also control whether you receive notifications for new answers to questions you’ve previously asked Alexa in the Answer Updates section. And finally, in the Things to Try section, you can turn off notifications for new things Amazon thinks you might like to try out with Alexa.

Additionally, you’ll also see any skills listed that you’ve installed that have skills you can turn on and off.

5 Reasons to Turn Off Alexa Notifications

1. Peace and Quiet

When you desire a serene environment, turning off Alexa notifications can be a lifesaver. Constant alerts from a smart device can disrupt the tranquility of your home. This is especially true in spaces meant for relaxation or focus, like bedrooms or home offices. Disabling these notifications helps maintain a calm atmosphere. It allows you to enjoy quiet moments without interruptions. This change can significantly reduce stress and increase your overall well-being. Think of it as creating a tech-free sanctuary. A quieter environment fosters relaxation, deeper concentration, and a more peaceful home life.

2. Better Sleep Hygiene

Interrupted sleep due to late-night notifications is a common problem. If Alexa chimes in after hours, it can disrupt your sleep cycle. Keeping notifications active throughout the night might lead to fragmented sleep. This can affect your health and mood the following day. By turning off notifications, you ensure that your sleep environment remains undisturbed. A consistent sleep schedule without interruptions supports deeper, more restful sleep. Over time, this can improve your energy levels, mood, and productivity. Prioritizing sleep hygiene by managing your notifications is a smart way to take care of your health.

3. Control Over Digital Information Flow

We receive an overwhelming amount of digital information daily. Turning off Alexa notifications puts you back in control. You decide when and how to engage with digital content. This can prevent information overload, which often leads to stress and decision fatigue. Managing the flow of alerts allows you to focus on tasks without constant interruptions. It also enables you to be more selective about your digital interactions. This practice can lead to better time management and increased productivity. In essence, it’s about reclaiming your attention and directing it where it matters most.

4. Privacy Concerns

With growing concerns about privacy and data security, managing Alexa notifications is a prudent step. Each alert or interaction with a smart device potentially involves data transmission. By reducing the frequency of these interactions, you minimize the risk of personal data exposure. Turning off notifications when they’re not needed can safeguard your privacy. It limits the amount of data shared with cloud services. For those cautious about their digital footprint, this is an essential practice. It ensures that your interactions with smart devices occur only on your terms.

5. Battery and Device Longevity

Constant notifications can drain the battery of portable Alexa devices. Reducing this can extend the battery life and overall device longevity. Frequent alerts also put a strain on the device’s hardware. By limiting notifications, you reduce wear and tear. This extends the lifespan of your device and prevents frequent replacements. It’s an eco-friendly choice as well. Fewer device replacements mean less electronic waste. If you’re looking for a way to make your tech last longer and work more efficiently, consider managing your Alexa notifications.