Disable alerts at a specific time on Jelly Bean devices

Learn how to disable alerts for set periods of time, allowing you to get other things done, like working or napping!

The Samsung Galaxy Note II: a device that runs Jelly Bean from the factory.

(Credit: Samsung)

There are lots of apps in the Google Play Store that can help you schedule some quiet time from your phone. However, if you're an owner of a device that received a Jelly Bean update (or you recently bought a Galaxy Note II), you have this feature built in with Blocking mode.

Note: This feature only works on the 4.2 version of Jelly Bean. 

The benefit of using a stock feature over an app is fairly simple: reliability. Chances are, you won't have as many (if any) crashes from this setting, allowing you to count on it for actual silence. And what's also awesome is that you can set up a white list (callers that will still make the phone ring, regardless of settings).

Ready to get started? Here's how:

Step 1: On your Galaxy Note II, press Menu > Settings > Blocking mode.

Step 2: Toggle the small switch at the top of the screen from Off to On.

Tip: You'll see a small circle with a line through it in the notification shade when Blocking mode is enabled.

Step 3: Choose the alerts you want blocked from your device. These settings can be changed at any time.

Step 4: Set the time you want alerts blocked.
Be wary of choosing "Always," since this will prevent anyone but those you specify from contacting you, increasing your chances of missing an important text or call. If you're going to a meeting or taking a nap, try to align the timing so you don't have to remember to turn off your device.

Step 5: Decide who is allowed to contact you, despite turning off alerts.
Here you can pick all the contacts on your device, only favorite people, or a custom collection of contacts. If you want absolutely zero alerts on your device, pick "None."

Blocking mode allows you the freedom to carry your device without having to remember when to turn it to silent. 

Do you normally turn your device off when it needs to be silent? Do you sometimes forget? Let us know in the comments.