Since the introduction of "Modes" in Android 15, activating "Do Not Disturb" mode requires two steps instead of one. A decision that has sparked the ire of many users who valued the simplicity of the previous version. Faced with this anger, Google seems to be backtracking and is preparing to reintroduce the dedicated shortcut. in Android 16.
Google hears criticism of the "Do Not Disturb" mode
When Google replaced the quick "Do Not Disturb" button with access to "Modes" in Android 15 QPR2, many cried out about the lack of ergonomics of this new feature. Now, pressing the "Modes" icon no longer instantly deactivates notifications, but opens an intermediate panel where you have to choose between several profiles: "Do Not Disturb", "Driving" or even "Sleep". An additional action deemed superfluous by users accustomed to activating this feature several times a day.
The current display of modes on Android 15. – Source: Android Authority
This discontent was particularly expressed among Pixel smartphone owners, who were the first to be exposed to this new feature during the last Pixel Drop. The new "Modes" have other advantages, such as the ability to implement finer settings, but this comes at the cost of a loss of simplicity. Android 16 could indeed reconcile the two visions.
A return to grace of the single button in Android 16
In beta 4 of the future operating system, a new shortcut dedicated to "Do Not Disturb" makes its appearance. True to the old operation, it allows you to activate or deactivate the mode with a single press. This new button does not replace the "Modes" button, but adds to the available options. Each user will therefore be able to customize their quick settings according to their preferences: keep the "Modes" button, restore the "Do Not Disturb" button, or use both.
This tile is already functional in the beta version, but is not enabled by default. Its availability in the stable version of Android 16 is therefore far from guaranteed. It is likely that it will be officially integrated during the first quarterly patch (QPR1). Android 16 could also completely overhaul the way Settings is displayed.
Source: Android Authority
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