Websites can alert you to new content or actions you need to take through pop-up notifications in your browser. However, these pop-up notifications can be distracting or intrusive, whether you’re browsing on anAndroid tablet, a smartphone, or a computer. There are ways you’re able to limit your exposure to pop-ups from specific sites or all sites en masse. In this guide, we show you how to turn off pop-up notifications in most major web browsers.
What are browser pop-up notifications?
Pop-up notifications are messages that usually appear as a small window or banner in the foreground of the website you’re browsing. Pop-up notifications are meant to grab your attention and promote a product or service. They’re like the digital equivalent of a carnival barker.
The most common use of pop-up notifications is to ask for your permission to send news and updates or store cookies on your device. You’ll also see these notifications when a website tries to use your location or wants to access your camera or microphone. While some of these notifications are intended to be helpful, they can become annoying if you’re not interested.
Why are we seeing so many pop-up notifications recently?
Pop-up notifications have exploded in the past few years partly because of privacy regulations like the EU’sGeneral Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)and theCalifornia Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA). These regulations require websites to obtain user consent before collecting or using certain data types. As a result, you’ll likely see a pop-up notification when you visit a website. These notifications usually ask for your consent to store cookies on your device, track your browsing activity, or access your location.
How to turn off pop-up notifications in different browsers
Thebest web browsersblock pop-ups and redirects by default unless you deactivate the block or yourdevice has malware. However, they don’t stop websites from sending you notifications.
It might be a good idea to keep browser notifications turned on for websites you visit every day. For example, you might want to be notified of new emails or Slack messages. However, receiving continuous notifications about new articles or other content, like news, can be distracting, especially if you don’t remember signing up for them.
You can change the pop-up notifications settings in your browser with the following steps.
Turning off pop-up notifications on Chrome desktop
Turning off pop-up notifications in Chrome on mobile
Turning off pop-up notifications in Firefox on desktop
Turning off pop-up notifications in Firefox on mobile
Turning off pop-up notifications on Edge desktop
Turning off pop-up notifications on Edge mobile
Turning off pop-up notifications on Safari on desktop
Turning off pop-up notifications on Safari on mobile
Keep your browser clean of pop-ups
Browser pop-up notifications can be a major distraction when you’re trying to focus. By turning off notification permissions, you’re able to eliminate the constant prompts about news and updates, as well as annoying requests from websites asking for permission to send even more notifications. Use thesetips and tricks on your Android phone or tabletfor a more distraction-free experience.
