If Gmail suddenly stops syncing right after an Android system update, you’re not imagining it. This is a fairly common side effect of system upgrades. The update often resets background permissions or quietly changes battery and account settings, which prevents Gmail from checking for new mail.
The quickest fix is usually to re-enable background sync and remove any battery restrictions placed on the Gmail app. Start there before trying anything more complicated.
Check Whether Sync Is Actually Enabled
System updates sometimes switch sync settings off without showing a warning.
- Open Settings.
- Go to Accounts or Passwords & Accounts.
- Select your Google account.
- Tap Account sync.
- Make sure Gmail is turned on.
After enabling it, wait a minute and open Gmail again. Many times, messages begin downloading immediately.
Remove Battery Restrictions on Gmail
Android updates often reset power management rules. If Gmail is restricted, it won’t sync in the background even though everything looks normal.
- Open Settings → Apps.
- Find and tap Gmail.
- Open Battery.
- Select Unrestricted or Allow background usage.
On some devices, this setting appears under “Battery usage” or “App battery management.” The wording changes slightly depending on the manufacturer.
Force a Fresh Sync
If Gmail still shows old messages, forcing a manual refresh can reconnect it to Google’s servers.
- Open the Gmail app.
- Swipe down from the top of the inbox until you see the refresh icon.
- Hold briefly, then release.
If nothing happens, continue with the next step.
Clear Gmail Cache (Not Data)
After a system update, cached files from the older Android version sometimes conflict with the new system.
- Go to Settings → Apps → Gmail.
- Tap Storage.
- Select Clear cache.
Avoid choosing “Clear data” unless necessary, since that removes local settings and forces a full account reload.
Check Background Data Access
Some updates tighten data permissions automatically.
- Open Settings → Apps → Gmail.
- Tap Mobile data & Wi-Fi.
- Enable Background data and Unrestricted data usage.
Without this permission, Gmail only updates when you open the app manually.
One Practical Tip
If you use system-wide battery saver mode frequently, try turning it off temporarily. Many Android versions pause automatic email syncing while battery saver is active, even if Gmail itself is configured correctly.
Once sync settings, battery permissions, and background data access are restored, Gmail typically resumes normal syncing within a few minutes. If new emails begin appearing again, no further action is needed.