Messages on iMac 2021 showing phantom unread message badge count

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Messages on iMac 2021 showing phantom unread message badge count

I have iMessage in iCloud enabled. all of a sudden, the message count badge started to show a constant 2 unread. every effort tried to locate the phantom unread message was done without success. tried many solutions offer in this forum from the pass also tested. The count still shows up stubbornly. the number will increase when there are more than 2 unread messages. But will never be less than 2. Please help. OS Ventura 13.4.1. The latest version. iMac with M1 chip.

iMac (M1, 2021)

Posted on Aug 16, 2023 11:32 AM

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Answer 1

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Old Toad

Level 10

216,406 points

Aug 16, 2023 3:41 PM in response to jynewjersey

Give this a try: boot into Safe Mode according to How to use safe mode on your Mac and test to see if the problem persists. Reboot normally and test again.

NOTE 1: Safe Mode boot can take up to 3 - 5 minutes as it's doing the following;

• Verifies your startup disk and attempts to repair directory issues, if needed

• Loads only required kernel extensions (prevents 3rd party kernel/extensions from loading)

• Prevents Startup Items and Login Items from opening automatically

• Disables user-installed fonts

• Deletes font caches, kernel cache, and other system cache files

NOTE 2: if you have a wireless keyboard with rechargeable batteries connect it with its charging cable before booting into Safe Mode. This makes it act as a wired keyboard as will insure a successful boot into Safe Mode.

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