Why Android's hidden custom modes are such a productivity game-changer

Qi Yang/Getty Images Distractions are terrible. It seems like just when I'm getting into a flow, something pulls me out of it. The stoppage of said flow lasts as long as the distraction and the ramp-up time to get back into the flow -- or (worse) the loss of an idea. It happens to me a lot, especially when I'm writing, which requires a high level of concentration. Fortunately, there are ways to avoid distraction, especially if you use Android as your OS. One such way is through Modes. Modes let Android block distractions during important periods. Out of the box, you'll find modes for Do Not Disturb, Bedtime, and Driving. You can, however, create custom modes that are specific to your needs. Also: My 5 favorite AI apps on Android right now - and how I use them For example, I created a Writing mode that shuts off notifications from everything and everyone (except certain contacts) and even disables all apps (including alarms) from interrupting. By doing this, I can have a totally dis ... Read full article.