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glic
User level: Level 1 (28 points)

Apple Watch Focus icon obscures notification dot

I’m not sure if this is a long term bug or flaw but I’ve noticed that when my phone is in any focus mode, the focus icon is placed at the top centre of the Apple Watch where the notifications dot would usually be.


When messages come in, I’d usually be able to look down from time to time and recognise that there’s something waiting for me to read. When there’s any focus in place, the focus icon takes the red icon real estate on the watch and I’ve no way to see at a glance on the watch if there’s a notification.


Is there a way around this?

Posted on Sep 18, 2026 8:47 AM

3 replies

WheelieNick
User level: Level 9 (74,110 points)

Sep 18, 2026 1:43 PM in response to glic

Hi there

Try this


If you use a custom Focus mode, you cannot hide the icon, but you can change its color. 

  • On your iPhone, go to Settings > Focus.
  • Select your custom Focus or tap the + to make a new one.
  • Edit the icon and picker color. If you choose a subtle color or one that naturally matches your watch face background tone, it becomes less visually dominant, though it won't bring back the red dot. 


glic Author
User level: Level 1 (28 points)

Sep 18, 2026 2:20 PM in response to WheelieNick

Thanks a lot for the reply! It’s actually the red dot that Im hoping to restore. I find it really useful to glance down while I’m working to see if there’s anything that needs my attention. I don’t keep my phone in my pocket so it was handy to have. I just don’t understand it.. it seems an obvious design flaw.

Jeff Donald
User level: Level 9 (64,078 points)

Sep 18, 2026 2:47 PM in response to glic

Apple has changed the look of Mac OS and iOS multiple times. Every time there are those the are challenged by the changes in appearance and functionality of some aspects of the User Interface. This is nothing new. 


Apple’s installed user base is over 1.5 billion users. Making a single user interface perfectly compatible for every user is literally impossible. Apple will make changes (or not make changes) based partially on the feedback they receive through their official channel, linked below and good luck.


Product Feedback - Apple


Apple and Apple Support do not participate in the communities here. They only moderate our posts to insure all user guidelines are followed in regard to content and user behavior. Your posts will not be reviewed by Apple. Good luck!

Originally posted at discussions.apple.com/thread/256359831