GNOME 3's notifications system has been overhauled for 3.16. The previous Message Tray has been replaced by a new message list that provides straightforward access to previous notifications, and notification pop-ups (called "banners") have been repositioned in order to make them more noticeable and to prevent them from interfering with applications.

As with the previous notifications design, it is possible to quickly and directly respond to notifications through their pop-up banners. This allows you to do things like quickly snooze an alarm or reply to a chat message.

The calendar drop down, which is accessed from the time indicator in the top bar, has also been redesigned for 3.16. Not only does it now present the notifications history, but it also shows event reminders and world times. This gives a great overview of what is currently happening, as well as what is scheduled for the day. The addition of weather information and birthday reminders is planned for the future.