Discord scraps DM Wallpapers experiment, introduces limits on Quests as new 'Orbs' currency rolls out

Discord users are seeing some shifts in how they can personalize their experience and earn rewards. The platform has officially pulled the plug on its DM Wallpapers experiment, a feature that allowed Nitro subscribers to set custom background images in direct messages and group chats. This change, effective May 28, 2025, means users who were enjoying this visual customization will find the option no longer available.

The DM Wallpapers feature, while seemingly minor, offered a unique way for users to add a personal touch to their conversations. Nitro users could select from over 15 pre-selected images, and remarkably, even non-Nitro users in a DM could see the chosen wallpaper. This inclusive aspect made the experiment a point of discussion among the community.

Some users on Reddit expressed disappointment, noting that such customization options are often well-received in other chat applications. Some even compared it to Telegram’s premium features, which offer similar levels of personalization. However, there were some comments surfacing about other long-awaited features like an account switcher or swipe-to-open member list, which have been in experimental stages for an extended period. So it seems not every user is going to miss the DM Wallpapers experiment.

In other news, Discord is also rolling out changes to its Quests system, a feature designed to encourage game discovery and engagement through in-app activities. Users can complete Quests by playing games, streaming content, or watching trailers to earn rewards like in-game items, avatar decorations, or the newly introduced “Orbs” currency. We first highlighted Orbs back in April, noting that it’ll likely go live soon. And well, it’s finally here.

While Quests continue to be a part of the platform, new limits are now in place. Users between the ages of 13 and 17 will find themselves capped at completing three Quests per day. Once this daily limit is hit, a 24-hour countdown begins from the moment the third Quest is completed, preventing further Quest acceptance until the timer resets. However, users can still claim rewards for Quests completed before reaching the cap.

But it seems users aren’t bothered by the limits. Reactions on Reddit suggest that no one even spends much time trying to complete Quests anyway. However, with the introduction of Orbs, it’s possible that more users will try completing Quests to score the new currency. This also explains why the Discord’s team thought of adding daily limits.

That said, these Orbs can then be spent in the Discord Shop. The Shop, accessible from the direct message list, now features an “Orbs Exclusives” tab, showcasing items that can only be acquired with this new currency. This includes Nitro credits, special profile badges, and unique avatar decorations and profile effects. It is important to note that Orbs cannot be converted to real money, bought, gifted, or transferred between users. They are tied directly to an individual’s account and do not expire. This new currency aims to provide a free-to-earn pathway for users to unlock premium-like Discord upgrades without requiring a payment method.

The “Orbs” system is currently in a limited beta, available to select users on desktop and browser, with mobile support still in development.

Feel free to share your thoughts on the changes Discord made in the comments section below.