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Whenever I configure a new Android device, iPhone, Windows computer, or Mac with Google Chrome as my primary browser, there’s a specific setting I consistently adjust. This change is imperative for me, particularly when setting up devices for family members.
So, what’s this critical adjustment? It’s simply a preference that prevents websites from prompting me for notification permissions. Implementing this setting goes beyond merely dismissing these notifications; it eradicates the issue at its source, stopping those persistent “Allow notifications” pop-ups from appearing whenever I access a new site. It’s truly a game-changer for maintaining a smoother browsing experience.
Why blocking notification pop-ups is preferable to managing numerous notifications
These days, browsing the web can be overwhelming due to an onslaught of cookie consent forms, login prompts, notifications, advertisements, and other distractions. While some interruptions, like cookie agreements, are essential for privacy, others simply clutter the browsing experience. Many users, including myself, find these endless requests, such as logging into TripAdvisor or receiving notifications from my grocery store, to be unnecessary.
Countless users persist in clicking Block to bypass intrusive notification requests. However, it is easy to make mistakes—especially in hurried situations—leading one to accidentally select Allow and then face a barrage of unwanted notifications. For instance, a casual purchase from a furniture store could result in daily notifications on offerings I have no interest in. This experience reinforces the desire for a permanent resolution rather than managing an ongoing flood of notifications.
For users who share devices with less tech-savvy family members, the stakes are even higher. They may quickly agree to notifications without understanding the implications, resulting in a relentless stream of alerts. Thus, addressing the notification pop-up proactively can significantly enhance the browsing experience for everyone.
Steps to disable notification pop-ups in Chrome
To entirely disable notification prompts on mobile devices, including Android and iOS, navigate to Chrome’s Settings > Site Settings > Notifications and turn off the first Notifications toggle. Once it displays as Blocked, you’re set.
If you are using Chrome on a desktop, there is an additional step: access Settings > Privacy and security > Site settings > Notifications and select Don’t allow sites to send notifications. Following these steps will prevent the “xyz.com wants to show notifications” pop-ups from interrupting your browsing experience across all sites. This adjustment also offers a valuable benefit when managing devices for family members, providing a sense of tranquility.
Additional pop-up settings to consider
While you’re adjusting notifications, you will notice similar options under Site Settings, allowing you to also disable pop-ups for location, camera, and microphone requests. By following the same procedure and selecting Location, Camera, or Microphone, you can streamline your browsing experience while avoiding needless interruptions. Given the volume of websites I visit for work, this modification is particularly beneficial.
However, keep in mind that disabling these permissions means that websites will not be able to request access without reinstating the prompts. When I need to grant access to platforms like Google Meet for calls, I temporarily enable the respective pop-up, approve the request, and then revert the setting. This requires minimal effort for peace of mind, knowing that I can control permissions while browsing safely.
Source
www.androidauthority.com