You can turn on “Hide Alerts” in iOS and iPadOS if you wish. Here’s how in iOS 26 and iPadOS 26:
Method 1: The Swipe Shortcut
- Open the Messages app.
- Find the chat or group text you want to silence.
- Swipe left right across the conversation thread.
- Tap the purple Mute / Bell button. A small crossed-out bell icon will show next to the chat.
Method 2: From the Contact Profile
- Open the Messages app and tap the conversation.
- Tap the profile picture, name, or group icon at the top of the chat.
- Scroll down slightly to find Hide Alerts.
- Tap the switch to turn it on (it will turn green or active).
