How to Share Focus across Devices (2023)

Sync Focus and silence unwanted notifications across all of your devices with one easy setting.

By Elisabeth Garry Updated 01/12/2023

* This post is part of iPhone Life's Tip of the Day newsletter. Sign Up. *

Focus modes let you customize different Do Not Disturb settings when you don't want to be bothered by notifications and messages. So what happens when you turn on Focus for your iPhone, but you still get notifications on your iPad? We'll show you how to turn on Share Across Devices in Focus mode with this quick setting.

Why You'll Love This Tip

Sync Focus across all of your devices and save yourself the hassle of setting it individually on your iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch.
Change this setting back just as easily if you'd prefer to continue receiving notifications and messages on one of your devices.

How to Share Focus Across Devices

For this tip to work, make sure that you are signed in on all of your Apple devices using the same Apple ID. By default, Share Across Devices under Focus should be enabled, but if you're still getting notifications or messages on some devices when Focus mode is enabled on another, use the steps below to set Focus to sync across your devices. To learn more about Apple's best productivity features, check out our Tip of the Day newsletter.

Open the Settings app.
Scroll down and tap on Focus.
Tap the Share Across Devices toggle to enable the feature. The toggle will be green when enabled.

Now the notifications for all of your iCloud-linked devices will be filtered by the Focus mode you set on one device! Next, learn how to set allowed or silenced people and apps in Focus mode.

Master your iPhone in one minute a day: Sign up here to get our FREE Tip of the Day delivered right to your inbox.

Topics

Did you like this tip

Author Details

Elisabeth Garry

Elisabeth Garry is an Associate Editor for iPhone Life. Formerly of Gartner and Software Advice, she has four years’ experience writing about technology for everyday users. As a former college writing instructor, she is passionate about effective, accessible communication, which is perhaps why she loves helping people make the best use of the strongest communication tools they have available: their iPhones. She has a degree in Russian Literature and Language from Reed College.

When she’s not writing for iPhone Life, she’s probably either reading (19th-century Russian literature or fantasy novels), writing fiction, or spending time with her adorable dog, Moosh.

Article Spotlight

Remote Device Management Has Never Been Easier

Managing smart devices is essential for businesses and schools, especially when operating remotely. Jamf Now is a cloud-based mobile device management system that oversees 20 million Apple devices worldwide. Jamf Now allows you to configure settings, add email accounts, download apps, and set up security measures for all of an organization's devices. You can try this for free with up to three devices and add more for just $2 per device, paid monthly.

Featured Products

This USB-C Mouse Is the Last You'll Ever Need to Buy

Do you love your mouse? If not, it may be time for an upgrade! The Wired PBT Mouse by Matias stands out from the crowd because it is made using higher-quality plastic. Instead of using cheap ABS, these mice feel luxurious with a unique satin feel and aluminum scroll wheel. Matias has over 20 years of experience creating universal keyboards that work on Macs, PCs, iPads, and other USB-C-compatible devices. If you love their keyboard, you’ll love their mice, available in black and white with either USB or USB-C. It is also extra secure and doesn’t require installing any drivers. Try it today!

Organize Your Life: Stop Scrambling Around for Cords & Cables

Keeping your tech safe and organized while you are on the go can be tough, but CASEBUDi Electronics Organizer Case has your back! These nylon bags keep your electronics from getting lost in large luggage and safely stored to prevent damage. Available in Midnight Black, Sunset Orange, Cool Grey Fog, and Bright Sky Blue, this compact bag is stylish and practical. This case is 9.5 inches long, 3 inches wide, and 3 inches tall, so it is small and lightweight, yet it fits cords, cables, charging blocks, and other small accessories with ease. Stop wasting time digging through your purse or bag once and for all!