For users missing the classic LED notification light on modern smartphones, NotifyBuddy offers a clever software-based alternative. This app aims to replicate that familiar visual alert system directly on your screen.
What is NotifyBuddy?
NotifyBuddy is a utility application designed for Android users who want LED-style notification alerts. Its primary purpose is to display a customizable, blinking light on the screen whenever a new notification arrives. The tool specifically targets owners of devices that lack a physical notification LED, providing a clear and visual way to stay informed without constantly waking the full display.
Why Should You Use NotifyBuddy?
This app is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a minimalist, battery-efficient alternative to turning on the entire screen for alerts. Its main advantages are its simplicity, high level of customization for different apps and alerts, and its ability to function effectively on AMOLED displays by using mostly black backgrounds to save power.
Key Features of NotifyBuddy
Customizable LED Colors: Assign a unique color to notifications from each specific application for easy identification.
Adjustable Animation Duration: Control how long the LED notification light stays active on the screen.
Flexible LED Positioning: Move the simulated LED light to any preferred location on your screen.
Missed Call Alerts: Receive persistent visual alerts specifically for any unanswered phone calls.
Downtime Scheduler: Set periods where the notification alerts will not activate, such as during sleep hours.
Additional Features
AMOLED Optimization: The app uses a predominantly black screen for its alerts, minimizing battery consumption on compatible displays.
Size Customization: Adjust the size of the LED light, a feature typically available in the premium version of the application.
Minimal Storage Footprint: The tool is lightweight, taking up less than 10 MB of device storage space upon installation.
How to Download and Install NotifyBuddy
1. Open the Google Play Store on your Android device.
2. Use the search bar to look for "NotifyBuddy".
3. Select the app from the search results and tap "Install".
4. Once downloaded, open the app and proceed to the setup.
How to Use NotifyBuddy
1. After opening NotifyBuddy, grant it the necessary "Notification Access" permission when prompted.
2. Disable your phone's Ambient Display and exclude the app from battery optimization for reliable performance.
3. Navigate to the app list within NotifyBuddy and select the applications you want alerts for.
4. Choose a distinct color for each selected app. The app name text will change to your selected color to confirm.
5. For MIUI (Xiaomi) users, ensure "AutoStart" is enabled for the app in its settings.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Pros
Extremely simple to set up and use.
Provides a clear and immediate visual cue for notifications.
Highly effective for users who work in loud environments or keep their phone on silent.
Offers a good degree of personalization for free.
Cons
Advanced features like resizing the LED require a premium upgrade.
Performance can sometimes be affected by manufacturer-specific battery optimization settings that must be manually disabled.
Is NotifyBuddy Safe to Use?
Yes, NotifyBuddy is safe to download from the official Google Play Store. The permission to read notifications is essential for its core function of detecting alerts and triggering the corresponding LED light. The app does not misuse this data.
Compatible Apps or Tools
NotifyBuddy is designed to work alongside any app that generates a notification. It is commonly used with communication platforms like WhatsApp, Messenger, Gmail, SMS applications, and phone call dialers.
FAQs
Q: Why is NotifyBuddy not working on my phone?
A: The most common cause is restrictive battery optimization settings. Ensure you have disabled battery optimization for NotifyBuddy in your Android settings and granted it all necessary permissions.
Q: Is NotifyBuddy a free application?
A: The base app is free to download and use but contains optional in-app purchases to unlock premium features like LED size adjustment.
Q: What is the file size of the app?
A: The application is very lightweight, with an installation file size of approximately 9.5 MB.
Conclusion
NotifyBuddy successfully fills the void left by the departed hardware notification LED. It is a straightforward, functional, and customizable solution that does its job well. If you find yourself constantly checking your phone for missed alerts, this utility app is certainly worth trying. You can download NotifyBuddy for free from the Google Play Store.
