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Troubleshooting Spruce Notifications on Android (Battery Optimization, Private Space)

When Android notifications stop appearing, start with the Spruce App Status screen at Settings > App Status, which lists every permission and configuration that could block notifications and shows what to fix. Other steps include confirming device notifications are on, checking notification settings per Conversation Filter (providers only), and reviewing battery optimization or manufacturer-specific restrictions (see DontKillMyApp.com). Finally, try updating Google Play Services, clearing its cache and data, and—on Android 15 and up—confirming Spruce is not in a Private Space. 

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If you’re having trouble receiving notifications, please follow these steps. If the issue persists, don’t hesitate to contact our support team—we’re here to help.

1. Check the Spruce App Status Screen

We’ve introduced a new App Status screen to quickly show any issues with your device’s permissions or configurations.

  • Open the Spruce app and go to Settings > App Status.
  • The App Status screen lists all the permissions and configurations that might prevent you from receiving notifications.
  • Each item will have a Fix button if the configuration is suboptimal. Tap Fix to adjust the setting.

2. Confirm Device Notifications Are On

  1. From the Spruce app, tap Settings > Notifications.
  2. Tap System Notification Settings.
  3. Make sure notifications are turned on and set to alert you with sound.
  4. Turn on vibration if desired.
  5. If you want to receive notifications even in Do Not Disturb (DND) mode, enable the DND override here as well.

3. Check Settings for Individual Conversation Filters (For Providers only)

  1. From the Spruce app, tap Settings > Notifications.
  2. Confirm that notifications are turned on for the conversation filters you want (e.g., All Messages, Mentions, etc.).
  3. If you use Do Not Disturb on your phone, ensure that you allow Spruce notifications while in DND mode.

4. Review Battery Optimization and Manufacturer Restrictions

Some Android devices (especially from certain manufacturers) have aggressive battery or power-saving settings that can prevent apps from sending notifications.

  • Check DontKillMyApp.com for tips specific to your phone.
  • If you see a warning on the App Status screen about battery optimization or app hibernation, tap it to go to settings and turn off optimization for Spruce.

5. Update Google Play Services

Android uses Google Play Services for notifications, so it’s important to keep it updated.

  1. On your Android device, visit the Google Play Services page.
  2. Tap Update or Install if available.

6. Clear the Cache & Data for Google Play Services

Note: Clearing Google Play Services data may remove certain information (like transit cards, COVID cards, or virtual payment cards). Proceed carefully.

  1. Open your device’s Settings.
  2. Tap Apps (or Apps & notifications) > See all apps.
  3. Scroll to Google Play Services and tap it.
  4. Clear Cache and Storage from the app’s settings.

7. Ensure Spruce is not in a Private Space (Android 15 and up)

If you’re using Android 15 or later, make sure Spruce is not installed in the Private Space. Apps in Private Space are stopped when the Private Space is locked — meaning you will not receive notifications until the space is unlocked.

To check and move Spruce out of Private Space (learn more here):

  1. Unlock Private Space.
  2. If Spruce is listed there, uninstall it.
  3. Reinstall Spruce from Google Play (outside Private Space).

8. Still Need Help?

If you’ve tried all the steps above (including checking the App Status screen) and you’re still not receiving notifications, please reach out!

  • Contact us in the Spruce app via the “Team Spruce” conversation
  • Email us at support@sprucehealth.com

We appreciate your patience, and we’re here to ensure Spruce continues working smoothly for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where do I check Spruce notification settings on Android?

Open the Spruce app, then go to Settings > App Status, which lists every permission or configuration that may be blocking notifications and shows what to fix.

Can battery optimization stop Spruce notifications on Android? 

Yes, battery optimization and manufacturer-specific restrictions are common causes that the App Status screen helps identify. 

Does Spruce work in Android 15 Private Space? 

Spruce inside an Android 15 Private Space can block notifications, so confirm Spruce is not running in a Private Space if notifications are missing on Android 15 or above.

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