You might have observed that Ubuntu’s GNOME Shell lacks extensive notification customization options by default. Typically, notifications are positioned at the top center of the screen just below the Date menu in a standardized manner, which generally suffices for most users. However, for those seeking more control over the display and management of notifications, there is a new solution.
Enter the Notification Configurator, a new GNOME Shell extension crafted by Artem Prokop, specifically designed for tailoring notifications. This extension brings a wealth of features that allow users to customize how their notifications look and behave, filling a gap left by the current GNOME capabilities.
Not only is it focused solely on notification management, but it also introduces features not seen in previous extensions. The Notification Configurator is compatible with GNOME versions 46 through 48 (spanning Ubuntu LTS 24.04 through 25.04) and offers the following functionalities:
- Position Control: Users can select notification positioning—options include top fill, left, center, or right, but not bottom.
- Rate Limiting: Control the frequency of alerts from the same application, minimizing interruption.
- Notification Filtering: Block or hide notifications from certain applications or those containing specific keywords.
- Custom Colors: Set different notification colors for individual applications.
- Fullscreen Behavior: Enable or disable notifications while in fullscreen mode.
The extension even includes a ‘test notification’ feature, allowing users to preview changes as they customize their settings, which can be particularly helpful when using text-based filters or custom themes.
To install this extension, visit the GNOME Extensions website. For easier installation and management, it’s recommended to use the Extensions Manager app available in the Ubuntu repositories.
While GNOME’s approach to notifications might appear limited, the introduction of the Notification Configurator allows users to tailor their experience significantly, offering greater control and personalization.