# Read notification badges in your app grid

CubbyPad can show app badge counts and folder totals, while the underlying notifications remain controlled by macOS and each application.

By [Rudra Satani](https://cubbypad.com/about/), maker of CubbyPad · 26 October 2026

## The count comes from the application

Turn on Notification badges in Settings › Grid to display available Dock badge information. The launcher is presenting a count supplied by the app rather than independently reading every inbox or creating a second notification system.

## A folder can summarize several counts

A closed folder adds the badges of its apps. If a number seems larger than one inbox’s unread count, open the folder and inspect the individual applications. Opening the folder itself does not mark those items read.

Keep the distinction between a badge and a running-app dot. A process can remain open with no unread activity, and an unread count does not explain current memory use.

## Choose how much visual information you need

If badges distract you while choosing a tool, turn the CubbyPad badge display off. That changes the launcher view; the application’s own notifications and Dock badge settings are separate decisions. Use the system’s notification controls for changes outside the grid.

## Troubleshoot a missing count in order

1. Check the app’s own Dock badge.

1. Check whether CubbyPad’s badge display is enabled.

1. Inspect the right folder and active layout.

1. Report a specific mismatch instead of resetting all app positions.

Published by CubbyPad’s maker. See [about CubbyPad](https://cubbypad.com/about/) for the author and product details. For corrections, [get in touch](https://cubbypad.com/contact/).

## Put it into practice.

[Guide

### Change the look of CubbyPad

Start with a preset, choose a background, and adjust icon size, spacing, labels, icon packs and the way the grid opens.

Read guide ↗](https://cubbypad.com/guides/customize/)[Guide

### Move apps and make folders

Drag apps into place, move a group together, rename a folder and hide an app without removing it from your Mac.

Read guide ↗](https://cubbypad.com/guides/folders/)

## More on app organization.

[### Recent apps or suggested apps above the grid?

CubbyPad’s App strip can favor the apps you just used or learn what you tend to open at that time of day.

Read article ↗](https://cubbypad.com/blog/recent-apps-vs-suggested-apps/)[### Keep communication apps findable without crowding your grid

Use a clear communications folder, deliberate badges and a separate work arrangement when several chat, mail and meeting tools compete for attention.

Read article ↗](https://cubbypad.com/blog/organize-work-communication-apps-mac/)[### Keep occasional Mac utilities easy to find

A rarely used tool can still be essential. Give occasional utilities a deliberate search name or folder before deciding they should be removed.

Read article ↗](https://cubbypad.com/blog/keep-occasional-mac-utilities-findable/)

## Make room for your apps.

Every feature. One-time purchase. Made for macOS 26.

[Find your plan](https://cubbypad.com/pricing/)

Source: https://cubbypad.com/blog/notifications-in-mac-app-grid/