Sound Notifications (Android): What It Does and What You Need
Your Android phone listens for sounds and alerts you.
At a glance
| Maker | |
|---|---|
| Group | Sound alerts |
| Works on | Android. Built into the phone. |
| Cost | Built in. Built into Pixel phones and a few others. Other phones get it through the Live Transcribe & Notifications app. |
| Good for | Android users who want alerts for sounds at home. |
What it does
- Detects smoke and fire alarms, sirens, baby crying, dog barking, knocking, doorbells, appliance beeps, a landline ringing and running water.
- Shows a visual alert or a vibration when it hears a sound you chose.
- Keeps audio on your device. Google says it does not send audio to Google without your permission.
What you need
- A supported phone, or the Live Transcribe & Notifications app from Google Play.
- Microphone and notification permissions.
Good to know
- Google says it listens all the time, so it may use more battery. Google suggests charging your phone every day.
- Google suggests putting the phone in the middle of the room, unobstructed, and reducing other loud sounds.
- Keep working smoke alarms in your home.
- To turn it on: Settings, then Accessibility, then Sound Notifications.
This guide is general information. It does not diagnose hearing loss and it does not replace a hearing evaluation. An app cannot tell you why you hear less. An audiologist can.
More in sound alerts
Sound Recognition (iPhone)
Apple
Your iPhone listens for sounds you pick and sends you an alert.
Where Sound Notifications (Android) fits
Compare Sound Notifications (Android) with another app
Read more on our site
- Driving with hearing loss
- Can you sleep in hearing aids?
- Hearing aids for seniors
- Family guide to hearing loss
Questions to bring to your visit
Write these on your phone or print this page. Bring them to your hearing evaluation.
- Which sounds do I most need to hear at home?
- Can my hearing aids carry alert sounds when I sleep?
- Should I add a flashing light or a vibrating alarm?
Sources
We read these pages on November 10, 2026. Prices and phone requirements change, so check the listing before you install.
Need help with this app?
Missing doorbells or alarms at home? Book a hearing test: 650-342-9449.
California Hearing Center has offices in San Mateo and San Carlos. One phone number reaches both: 650-342-9449.
Call 650-342-9449Request an appointmentAbout hearing testing