[whouweling]

As others replied; it does. But the API does not behave consistent on different brands and API levels.

Also some manufacturers cancel alarms when the user swipes away an app (which some users do constantly to keep the recent apps list "clean")

[jdbernard]

I'm one of those users. The visual clutter leads to mental clutter. Having a "clean" notification bar makes it easier to ignore the pavlovian "check your phone!" conditioning that has built up over time.

I appreciate that in some cases apps need to be in the notification bar in order to remain running. I also appreciate those like Tasker that have the option to hide their icons or use "empty" icons (so nothing shows).