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How to Set a Custom Vibration Pattern on Your Phone

Tap a device to see how it works.

iPhone

Under Settings, then Sounds & Haptics, then Ringtone (or Text Tone), then Vibration, you can pick a built-in pattern or tap out your own under 'Create New Vibration.'

Android

Under Settings, then Sound & vibration, then Vibration pattern, you can choose from the built-in options, and some devices also let you create a custom pattern.

Set a different pattern per contact

Assigning a distinct ringtone and vibration to a specific contact's info lets you tell who's calling without even looking at the screen.

Why this is useful

It's handy for telling calls and messages apart by feel alone, without any sound, in situations where you can't have your phone make noise.

Know who's calling without looking at the screen

In a meeting or anywhere quiet, sound often isn't an option. Giving your most important contacts their own vibration pattern means you can often guess who's reaching out just from the phone buzzing in your pocket.

Vibration still works with sound off

Flipping the ring/silent switch only mutes sound -- it's a separate setting from vibration, so if vibration is turned on, your phone still buzzes silently for calls and messages even in silent mode.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does vibration still work in silent mode?

Yes -- the silent switch is a separate setting from vibration, so as long as vibration itself is turned on, your phone still buzzes with no sound in silent mode.

How many custom vibration patterns can I save?

It varies by device, but most phones let you save several custom patterns and pick the one you want for each situation.