Missing or delayed phone notifications can be very frustrating. You don’t receive WhatsApp messages on time, emails arrive late, or app notifications only appear when you open the app. This problem is very common on Android phones, especially after system updates or battery optimization changes.
I personally faced this issue when important notifications stopped appearing unless I opened the app manually. After checking notification settings and battery restrictions, I was able to fix the problem without reinstalling apps or resetting the phone.
In this article, I’ll explain why notifications don’t show up or arrive late and share practical fixes that actually work.
How Notification Problems Usually Appear
Notification issues may look like:
- Notifications not appearing at all
- Notifications arriving very late
- Notifications only show after opening the app
- Sound or vibration missing
- Lock screen notifications not visible
These problems are usually caused by settings, battery optimization, or background restrictions.
Common Reasons Notifications Don’t Work Properly
1. Battery Optimization Blocking Apps
Android restricts background activity to save battery.
2. Notification Permission Disabled
Apps can’t send notifications without permission.
3. Background Data Restricted
Apps may not refresh data in the background.
4. Do Not Disturb Mode Enabled
DND blocks notifications silently.
5. App-Specific Notification Settings Turned Off
Some notification categories may be disabled.
Fixes That Actually Work
Method 1: Check Notification Permissions
This was the main fix for me.
Steps:
- Go to Settings → Apps
- Select the affected app
- Tap Notifications
- Enable Allow notifications
- Turn on all important notification categories
Method 2: Disable Battery Optimization for Important Apps
Battery optimization often delays notifications.
Steps:
- Go to Settings → Apps
- Select the app
- Tap Battery
- Choose Unrestricted or Don’t optimize
This allows apps to run properly in the background.
Method 3: Allow Background Data Usage
Without background data, notifications get delayed.
Steps:
- Open Settings → Apps
- Select the app
- Tap Mobile data & Wi-Fi
- Enable Background data
Method 4: Check Do Not Disturb Settings
DND mode may be enabled accidentally.
What to check:
- Turn off Do Not Disturb
- Check DND schedule
- Allow important apps if DND is needed
Method 5: Lock App in Recent Apps (Some Phones)
Some phones allow locking apps in memory.
- Open recent apps
- Long-press the app
- Enable Lock or Keep open
This prevents the system from killing the app.
Method 6: Update the App and Phone Software
Notification bugs are often fixed through updates.
- Update the app from Play Store
- Install system updates
- Restart phone
Method 7: Reset App Preferences (Safe Option)
This resets app-related permissions.
Steps:
- Go to Settings → Apps
- Tap Reset app preferences
- Restart phone
This doesn’t delete app data.
Why Notifications Work Only After Opening the App
This happens because Android:
- Blocks background activity
- Stops apps to save battery
- Delays background sync
Disabling battery optimization usually fixes this.
What You Should Avoid
- Using aggressive battery saver apps
- Blocking background data completely
- Ignoring notification permission prompts
- Clearing app data unnecessarily
These worsen notification delays.
FAQs
Why do notifications arrive late?
Battery optimization or background restrictions are the main reasons.
Does clearing cache fix notification issues?
Sometimes, but settings are more important.
Is this problem common after updates?
Yes, updates often reset notification settings.
Should I factory reset?
Only as a last option.
Final Thoughts
If your phone notifications are not showing or are delayed, the issue is almost always related to battery optimization, background data restrictions, or notification settings—not faulty apps.
From my experience, disabling battery optimization for important apps fixed delayed notifications instantly. A few setting changes can restore notifications fully.
Vaishnav Singh is the founder and primary author of TechHary.com. Based in Mumbai, he brings hands-on professional experience to his writing, having worked extensively as a Windows expert within the IT industry. His practical background in solving complex technical issues fuels his passion for creating clear, helpful, and relevant content. At TechHary.com, Vaishnav dedicates himself to publishing in-depth articles, guides, and insights aimed at demystifying technology for enthusiasts and professionals alike. His mission is to build a trusted resource where readers can find reliable information to navigate the ever-evolving tech landscape.