To fix a stuck Gmail in the Outbox on an iPhone, check your internet connection, ensure the Gmail app is updated, restart your iPhone, clear your outbox, check Gmail settings, and, if necessary, remove and re-add your Gmail account.
After completing these steps, your Gmail should send any emails that were stuck in the Outbox, and you should be able to send new emails without issues.
Introduction
Have you ever experienced that annoying moment when you hit send on an important email, only to realize it’s not actually sent but stuck in your iPhone’s Gmail Outbox? It’s a frustrating dilemma that can disrupt your workflow and delay your communication. But why does this happen, and more importantly, how can you fix it?
This issue is most common among iPhone users who rely on Gmail as their primary email client. It’s important because being unable to send emails can have significant implications, especially if you’re dealing with time-sensitive matters. Whether you’re a professional handling business communication or someone managing personal affairs, getting emails out promptly is crucial. That’s why understanding how to troubleshoot a stuck email in Gmail’s Outbox is a valuable skill for any iPhone user.
Step by Step Tutorial to Fix Gmail Stuck in Outbox on an iPhone
The following steps will guide you through the process of resolving the issue where Gmail gets stuck in the Outbox on an iPhone. By following these steps, you’ll be able to identify and rectify the problem, ensuring your emails go through as intended.
Step 1: Check Your Internet Connection
Ensure your iPhone is connected to a stable internet connection.
Sometimes the simplest solution is the right one. A poor internet connection is a common reason for emails getting stuck in the Outbox. Make sure you’re connected to Wi-Fi or have a strong cellular signal. If you’re using a Wi-Fi network, try toggling it off and on again, or switch to cellular data to see if that resolves the issue.
Step 2: Update the Gmail App
Update your Gmail app to the latest version available in the App Store.
App glitches can occur if you’re running an outdated version of the Gmail app. Developers regularly release updates to fix bugs and improve performance. Check the App Store for any available updates for Gmail, and install them if necessary.
Step 3: Restart Your iPhone
Restart your iPhone to refresh its systems and potentially fix the issue.
Turning your device off and on again can solve various software glitches, as it gives the system a fresh start. To restart your iPhone, hold the power button until you see the “slide to power off” option, slide it, and then turn your iPhone back on after a few moments.
Step 4: Clear Your Outbox
If possible, delete the stuck email from your Outbox and try sending it again.
Sometimes, a specific email can cause issues. If you see the email in your Outbox, try to delete it and compose a new one. There could have been an issue with the email’s format or size that prevented it from being sent.
Step 5: Check Gmail Settings
Make sure your Gmail account settings are correct, including the outgoing SMTP server settings.
Incorrect settings can prevent emails from being sent. Verify that the outgoing mail server (SMTP) is set to smtp.gmail.com, and that the port is set to 587. Ensure that SSL is enabled, and your username and password are correctly entered.
Step 6: Remove and Re-add Your Gmail Account
As a last resort, remove your Gmail account from the iPhone and add it back again.
If none of the above steps work, removing and re-adding your Gmail account can help reset the connection between your iPhone and the Gmail servers. Go to your iPhone settings, find “Mail,” then “Accounts,” select your Gmail account and choose “Delete Account.” Afterward, add it back again and try sending an email.
Pros
| Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Quick Resolution | Following these steps can lead to a quick resolution, saving you time and frustration. |
| Better Understanding | You’ll gain a better understanding of how your iPhone and Gmail app work. |
| Prevent Future Issues | Learning these troubleshooting steps can help prevent future issues with sending emails. |
Cons
| Drawback | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Temporary Fix | Sometimes these steps may only provide a temporary fix, and the issue could reoccur. |
| Time-Consuming | Troubleshooting can be time-consuming, which might be inconvenient during a busy day. |
| Technical Challenges | Some users may find technical steps, like checking SMTP settings, a bit challenging. |
Additional Information
When dealing with Gmail stuck in the Outbox on an iPhone, patience is key. Don’t rush through the steps; give your device and the app time to process each action. Additionally, make sure you’re not sending attachments that are too large, as this can often be the cause of the problem. If you’re consistently facing issues, it may be worth considering alternative email clients or reaching out to Gmail support for further assistance.
One more tip: keep an eye on your iPhone’s storage space. A full device can sometimes lead to app malfunctions, including issues with sending emails. Make sure you have enough free space for your apps to function properly. If you follow these steps and keep these additional tips in mind, you should have a smooth emailing experience moving forward.
Summary
- Check your internet connection.
- Update the Gmail app.
- Restart your iPhone.
- Clear your Outbox.
- Check Gmail settings.
- Remove and re-add your Gmail account.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I do if I can’t delete the stuck email from the Outbox?
Try force closing the Gmail app, then reopening it and attempting to delete the email again.
Can large attachments cause emails to get stuck?
Yes, large attachments can prevent an email from being sent. Try reducing the size or sending the files using a cloud service link instead.
Does updating iOS help with Gmail Outbox issues?
While not always directly related, keeping your iOS updated can improve overall app performance and potentially resolve email sending issues.
Why should I check my SMTP settings?
Incorrect SMTP settings are a common cause of emails not being sent. They are vital for the communication between your email client and the email server.
What if none of these steps solve the issue?
If the problem persists, consider reaching out to Apple Support or Gmail Support for further assistance.
Conclusion
Gmail getting stuck in your iPhone’s Outbox can be a real hindrance, especially when you rely on email communication for work or personal matters. However, by following the steps outlined in this guide, you can quickly troubleshoot and resolve the issue. It’s essential to keep your apps up-to-date, regularly check settings, and ensure your internet connection is stable.
If you stay proactive and informed, you’ll minimize the chances of experiencing this problem. Remember, if all else fails, reaching out to support teams is always a solid backup plan. Keep these tips in mind for a hassle-free emailing experience with Gmail on your iPhone.
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.