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Why is Discord showing 1 unread message? Quick Fix

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  • 4 min read

Discord is one of the most popular VoIP communications programs out there. The app started out as a gamer-centric communications platform but has since then evolved to include features to support a much wider user base. That said, as well-polished as the program is, it can still run into the occasional bug and glitch from time to time. 

In this article, we’re talking about why is Discord showing you unread messages when you don’t have any and what you can do to fix the problem. 

Also read: Discord paste button not working: Quick Fixes


Why is Discord showing you 1 unread message?

There are a number of reasons why you might see the unread message dot despite not having any unread messages.

  • A bug in the Discord app
  • The Nitro tab has a notification 
  • Outdated Discord version
  • Old message or pending friend request

How to fix Discord showing 1 unread message?

Here are six fixes you can try out.

Restart Discord from the Task Manager

Try quitting the Discord process from the Task Manager and relaunching it to see if that solves your problem.

Step 1: Right-click the Taskbar and click on Task Manager.

Discord won't open: 10 Fixes | Candid.Technology

Step 2: Find the Discord process and end it using the End task button in the bottom right.

Discord won't open: 10 Fixes | Candid.Technology

Now restart Discord, and it should work just fine. 


Check your internet connection

Discord requires an active internet connection to work. If you have an unstable internet connection, chances are you’re going to miss out on notifications. Suppose you’re on WiFi check to see if you’ve got internet access and strong signals. If you’re on mobile data, check to see if data is enabled and that you’ve got good network coverage.


Check the Nitro tab

As mentioned above, sometimes there might be an update in the Nitro tab that keeps the notification dot active. Simply open the Nitro tab to dismiss any such notification. Additionally, also check the friends and messages tabs to ensure there are no pending friend requests or messages that require your attention. 


Update the app

If there’s a bug in Discord, chances are the developers have looked into it and already released a patch. Try looking for updates on the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store, depending on what device you’re using. If you’re on a PC or Mac, check the app for any updates. 


Disable the Notification dot

You can also disable the notification dot on Discord altogether to get rid of the bug. 

Step 1: Click on the Settings gear icon in the bottom left. 

How to fix 'Discord notifications not working' error?

Step 2: Scroll down and click on Notifications. Disable the Enable unread message badge slider. 

If you’d like to disable Discord notifications completely, here’s our in-depth guide on how to do that


Reinstall Discord

If all else fails, your best bet is to reinstall Discord from scratch.

Step 1: Press Windows key + X to open the Quick Access menu and click on Apps & Features. 

Why is my Discord overlay not working? | Candid.Technology

Step 2: Find Discord in this list and click on Uninstall. 

Why is my Discord overlay not working? | Candid.Technology

Once the program has been removed, restart your PC, reinstall Discord and try launching it again. 

Also read: Sea of Thieves Discord audio not working: Quick Fix

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Yadullah Abidi

Yadullah is a Computer Science graduate who writes/edits/shoots/codes all things cybersecurity, gaming, and tech hardware. When he's not, he streams himself racing virtual cars. He's been writing and reporting on tech and cybersecurity with websites like Candid.Technology and MakeUseOf since 2018. You can contact him here: [email protected]

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