Focus Mode on your iPhone helps you stay in control of notifications and distractions by filtering alerts based on what you’re doing—whether you’re working, sleeping, driving, or relaxing. You can use Apple’s built-in Focus presets or create your own. Here’s how:

🛠️ Before You Start: Make sure your iPhone is running iOS 15 or later, since Focus Mode replaced the older Do Not Disturb.

📱 TURNING ON A PRESET FOCUS MODE

1. Swipe down from the top right corner of your screen (or swipe up from the bottom on models with a home button) to open the Control Center.
2. Tap the Focus button. This will either be a moon icon or your current Focus name.
3. Choose a preset like Do Not Disturb, Sleep, Personal, or Work.
Control Center with Focus menu expanded showing preset options

📱 CUSTOMIZING A FOCUS MODE

1. Open the settings app on your iPhone and tap Focus.
2. Select the Focus you want to customize or tap the + to create a new one.
3. Add Allowed Notifications by choosing people and apps you still want to reach you.
4. Set a Focus Schedule using time, location, or app triggers.
5. Customize your lock screen and home screen to match your Focus, if you desire to do so.
 Focus settings showing

📱 QUICKLY TURNING FOCUS ON OR OFF

1. Open the Control Center.
2. Tap the current Focus to toggle it off, or select a different one to switch modes.

All done! Your iPhone will now filter alerts so you can stay focused on what matters.

✅ Optional Tip:
 You can link different lock screens to specific Focus modes—great for showing work widgets during the day and hiding them in the evening.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I have more than one Focus active at once?
 No—only one Focus can run at a time, but you can quickly switch between them.

Do Focus settings sync across devices?
 Yes—if you’re signed in with the same Apple ID, your Focus will apply to all your Apple devices.

Will Focus block emergency calls?
 No—emergency contacts and repeated calls can still get through if you allow them.

Can I share my Focus status with others?
 Yes—turn on “Share Focus Status” so supported apps like Messages can let people know you have notifications silenced.

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