How To Use Do Not Disturb On iPhone

The Do Not Disturb feature on Apple phones can be customized to match the needs of the user. Users may also allow calls from specific contacts to ring through even when Do Not Disturb is turned on, ensuring they don't miss a call from their kids or boss. Additionally, the functionality allows users to customize when calls are quiet, how Do Not Disturb is engaged when driving, which apps automatically trigger the setting, and more.

The customization options are located in the same Settings section where you can switch on and off Do Not Disturb. Whether you're using iOS 15 or an older version of the operating system, the appearance and exact settings available in this iPhone menu will differ. 

iOS 15 features automations for Do Not Disturb, as illustrated in the image below, allowing you to have your iPhone (and iPad) silence notifications when you arrive at work, the library, or when you launch your favorite reading app, for example.

Each feature has its own explanation. When Do Not Disturb is activated, the "Silence" function, for example, can be set to "Always" or "While iPhone is Locked." This will turn off all incoming calls and notifications. You can also tap on "Allow Calls From" to select which contacts are exempt from Do Not Disturb, meaning their calls will ring normally. 

There's also the option to enable repeated calls to get through, so if someone phones you numerous times, the iPhone will let the call ring in case it's an emergency.

Another customization option is "Do Not Disturb While Driving," which activates Do Not Disturb just while driving. You may set it to turn on manually or automatically when you pair your iPhone with a car's Bluetooth connection. 

Finally, when others try to contact you, you can specify certain auto-reply choices. Select which contacts receive an automated response when they try to contact you while Do Not Disturb is turned on by tapping "Auto-Reply To." You can edit what message is sent by tapping on "Auto-Reply" under that.

To enable or alter each personalization option, simply tap it and follow the on-screen directions. In certain cases, such as adjusting the times in "Scheduled," you'll need to manually adjust the settings, while other capabilities can be turned on simply flipping the menu item's switch to green.