Recommended Free Tools
SmartThings alerts are controlled in two places: inside the SmartThings app, where you choose which devices can generate alerts, and in your phone’s settings, where you allow or block the app’s notifications. App permissions are a separate control again. The exact menus vary by phone, region, app version and operating system; the steps below distinguish Samsung Galaxy guidance from Android permission guidance and avoid assuming one universal route.
Know which SmartThings control you need
Use the control that matches the result you want. Turning off a device’s alert preference in SmartThings is not the same as blocking notifications for the whole app in your phone settings. Messages and activity shown inside SmartThings are separate from alerts in the phone’s Notification panel.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
| Control | What it affects | Where to look |
|---|---|---|
| SmartThings notification preferences | Which device events can generate SmartThings alerts. | In the app, usually Menu > Settings > Notifications; choose devices or the all-devices switch. Samsung US |
| Phone notification controls | Whether the phone permits SmartThings alerts and, on supported Galaxy software, which categories can appear. | Galaxy Settings > Notifications > SmartThings, or Settings > Apps > SmartThings > Notifications. Samsung Gulf; Samsung Gulf |
| Messages and activity in SmartThings | Which messages or activity categories are visible inside the app. | Menu > Messages, then More options to hide or unhide categories. Samsung US |
| App permissions | Whether SmartThings has access to phone features such as location or camera. | On Android, Samsung’s older guide gives Settings > Apps > SmartThings > Permissions; current labels may differ. Samsung UK |
Choose which devices send SmartThings alerts
Samsung US app route
- Open the SmartThings app.
- Tap Menu (the three horizontal lines), then the Settings gear.
- Tap Notifications.
- Use the switch at the top to enable or disable notifications for all devices, or use the individual switches to select devices.
These are app-level device preferences; they do not override a phone setting that blocks SmartThings notifications altogether. Samsung’s US instructions also note that settings for SmartThings and individual devices or third-party apps are distinct. See Samsung’s settings guide.
Regional menu variation
Samsung Australia describes another route: Menu > Notifications > More options > Notification settings, where users can filter notifications by device. Samsung warns that menu labels and steps can vary by phone and software version. If that route does not match your app, look for Notifications in the app’s Menu or Settings rather than assuming a missing feature. Samsung Australia’s instructions.
#1 Best Overall
- Powered by SmartThings: Connect, monitor, and automate your home through the SmartThings app. Build a reliable, unified smart home using Samsung's proven ecosystem
- Matter + Zigbee Smart Home Hub: Supports the newest Matter standard plus Zigbee for lighting, sensors, plugs, switches, thermostats, and more - thousands of compatible devices. PLEASE NOTE: Z-Wave not supported
- Easy Setup with Wi-Fi or Ethernet: Get started in minutes using Wi-Fi or a wired Ethernet connection for apartments, houses, and expanding smart home systems - Z-Wave not supported
- Automations That Work for You: Create custom routines for security, lighting, comfort, and energy savings. Many local automations continue working even if your internet goes offline
- Wide Device Compatibility: Connect compatible smart devices from Aeotec and many other brands to build a unified system for lighting, voice control, energy management, and climate settings
Allow or limit SmartThings notifications on a Galaxy phone
Galaxy system settings determine whether SmartThings can send phone notifications at all. Samsung Gulf’s June 2026 guidance shows two routes, reflecting differences in Galaxy software and settings layouts:
- Settings > Notifications > SmartThings: review notification categories, turn off Allow notifications, or adjust categories individually where available.
- Settings > Apps > SmartThings > Notifications: review or change the app-wide notification switch.
Open the route your Galaxy displays and search Settings for “SmartThings” if the labels differ. Turning off the phone-level app switch can silence alerts even when individual devices remain enabled in SmartThings. Samsung Gulf’s category guide and app notification guide cover these controls.
Rank #2
![SmartThings Hub 3rd Generation [GP-U999SJVLGDA] Smart Home Automation Hub Home Monitoring Smart Devices - Alexa Google Home Compatible - Zigbee, Z-Wave, Cloud to Cloud Protocols – White](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/21hChu0ounL._SL160_.jpg)
- Monitor and control compatible devices in your home using a single smartphone app for your phone
- Automate connected devices in your home and set them to turn on or off when doors are opened, people come and go, and much more
- Works with a wide range of smartphone compatible products
Review SmartThings app permissions
Permissions govern access to phone features; they are not the same as permission to send notifications or the device-alert choices inside SmartThings. On Android, Samsung UK’s guide gives this path: Settings > Apps > SmartThings > Permissions. There you can inspect which permissions are allowed or denied. The article was updated January 7, 2021, so treat the route as illustrative and check your phone’s current labels.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Samsung’s older guide lists examples including Contacts, Camera, Location, Storage, Microphone and Telephone, but says the authorization SmartThings needs can vary by country, model and operating system. Do not grant every listed permission by default: review each permission in context of the feature you use. Samsung US also lists a Permissions option in SmartThings app settings. Samsung UK’s permission guidance; Samsung US settings guide.
Rank #3
- LOCAL PROCESSING FOR INSTANT RESPONSE: The Hubitat Elevation C-8 Pro runs automations directly on the hub, not on remote servers, so lights, locks, thermostats, and routines keep working even when your internet goes down; this local-first architecture delivers near-instant response to every trigger without relying on remote servers to process commands; compatible with 1,000+ devices across 100+ brands, and device data stays at home for enhanced privacy
- WORKS WITH ALEXA, GOOGLE HOME, AND APPLE HOMEKIT: Connect your preferred voice assistant and start controlling your smart home from day 1; the C-8 Pro is compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit, so your existing ecosystem works alongside the hub without compromise; Ring camera integration adds a concrete layer of security awareness; approachable setup is supported by step-by-step documentation and an active online community ready to guide you through every stage
- MULTI-PROTOCOL SUPPORT WITH EXTENDED RANGE: A single hub covers Matter 1.5, Z-Wave 800 Series with Long Range, Zigbee 3.0, and Bluetooth, so existing devices stay compatible without extra bridges or adapters; 800 Series Z-Wave and Zigbee 3.0 deliver improved reliability and mesh stability, backed by Z-Wave Alliance membership; 2 dedicated external antennas, one for Z-Wave and one for Zigbee, extend wireless reach in larger homes and device-dense environments where signal consistency is critical
- AI-ASSISTED AUTOMATION AND ADVANCED RULE ENGINE: The AI-assisted routine builder suggests and builds automations based on your connected devices, no programming required; Rule Machine enables multi-condition logic across lighting scenes, geofenced arrivals, layered security responses, and whole-home scheduling; when your family arrives after dark, the hub can unlock the door, activate pathway lights, and adjust the thermostat, turning complex sequences into reliable hands-free routines
- NO SUBSCRIPTION REQUIRED AND CONTINUOUS UPDATES: Full platform functionality needs no recurring subscription; every automation, integration, and advanced feature is available from setup; continuous platform updates since 2018 have expanded compatibility without requiring new hardware; an active community of tech-savvy homeowners and DIY smart home builders shares custom apps, drivers, and automation blueprints for ongoing value; compact at 3.23 x 2.95 x 0.67 in and just 0.16 lb, it fits anywhere
The cited Samsung guides do not establish a current, universal iOS permission path. On iPhone, use the current SmartThings and iOS settings labels rather than following Android or Galaxy menu steps.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Troubleshoot missing device notifications
If an expected alert does not arrive, check the controls in order so you can identify whether the issue is the device, SmartThings or the phone:
Rank #4
- Multi-Protocol Smart Hub with Matter Bridge – The M100 is a versatile smart hub compatible with Thread devices and Aqara Zigbee (** Not third-party Zigbee devices), supporting up to 20 Aqara Zigbee devices and 20 Thread devices. As a Matter Bridge, it connects Aqara Zigbee products to other smart home ecosystems, compatible with Apple Home, Amazon Alexa, Home Assistant, etc. Note: Use a 5V⎓0.5A power adapter (not included) and keep the product continuously powered during use.
- Advanced Matter Bridging for Seamless Smart Home Integration – The M100 enables Aqara’s unique features, such as facial recognition and complex automation, to work across Home Assistant and other Matter ecosystems. Expand your smart home with Aqara or third-party Matter devices (requires a Matter-enabled hub). Currently supports lights, thermostats, plugs, switches, buttons, and various sensors (motion, light, door/window, temperature/humidity), with more devices to be added in the future.
- Local Automation for Reliable Performance – Supports local execution of automations for Zigbee and Matter devices, ensuring smooth operation even without Wi-Fi or cloud access. Enjoy millisecond-level response times for a more stable and reliable smart home experience. (Some automation, such as cloud push notification, will still require the cloud connection to be executed.)
- Flexible Power & Small Size – Features a universal USB-A port for power and data, allowing connection to power banks, wall outlets, PCs, or routers for a simple and quick setup. The Hub M100's shaft can be adjusted within a 210-degree range, making its placement extremely flexible.
- 2.4GHz Wi-Fi 6 for Faster & Security—This product supports a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi 6 wireless network connection, which enables more efficient connections with advanced WPA3 security. Wi-Fi 6 ensures smoother performance even in high-traffic environments, allowing multiple devices to connect without compromising speed or reliability. Note: To ensure a stable connection, place the Hub M100 between 6 to 19 feet from the router.
- Check the phone’s data connection. Samsung India recommends confirming that the phone is connected to the internet.
- Check the device connection. Confirm the SmartThings device is connected to its Wi-Fi access point, where applicable.
- Check that device’s SmartThings notification preference. In the app’s Notifications settings, make sure the specific device is enabled.
- Check the phone-level notification setting. Confirm that the phone permits SmartThings alerts and that relevant categories are not disabled.
- Check whether the event appears in the app. SmartThings Messages or activity may show content that does not produce a conventional phone notification. Samsung US explains how to view these items and hide or unhide categories. Manage messages and activities.
Samsung India’s support page states: “Notifications are not provided for devices connected by Bluetooth.” This is Samsung India’s guidance; do not treat it as a universal statement for every device or region. Samsung India troubleshooting guidance.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
