Gmail doesn't show new emails until you refresh: Causes and solutions

Last update: 29/12/2025

If your Gmail isn't showing new emails until you refresh the page or app, you're not alone. Many users of this email service have experienced this problem. In this post, we'll tell you how to fix it. main causes and, more importantly, how to fix it permanently.

Why doesn't Gmail show new emails until I refresh the page?

Gmail doesn't show new emails until you refresh.

Gmail is one of Google's longest-running applications: over 21 years, to be exact. So it's a veteran, stable, and mature messaging service that rarely has problems. That's why it's surprising when, suddenly, Gmail doesn't show new emails until you reload the page or the app.Has this ever happened to you?

The problem is this: you notice that you don't receive any notification when you get a new email. Nothing happens when you pick up your phone and open the Gmail app, or log in from your computer. Only when... You scroll down and reload the page It's because all new emails appear.

This situation is frustrating, especially if you're expecting an important email from work or a verification code. What can you do to get things back to normal? Let's explore the causes of this problem along with possible solutions. In most cases, A couple of adjustments to the service and equipment settings are enough..

Gmail doesn't show new emails until you refresh: synchronization problems

The main reason Gmail doesn't show new emails until you refresh the page is synchronization problems. This mainly occurs in the service's mobile app, on both Android and iOS. If the Automatic synchronization is disabledGmail does not update the inbox in real time.

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But how did it suddenly start malfunctioning? You probably didn't notice, but synchronization problems usually arise after an operating system or app updateThe solution? Go to the app settings and make sure syncing is enabled. Here's how:

  1. On Android, go to Settings – Apps – Gmail.
  2. Now click on Notifications and scroll down until you find the Additional Application Settings option.
  3. Select the Gmail account that is causing problems.
  4. Next, look for the section Data and check that the option Sync Gmail be marked.
  5. If it isn't, mark it.

Battery saving and low power consumption activated

Following on from the previous point, synchronization problems can arise from enabling features like battery saver and low power consumption. When it comes to optimizing resources, Android can disable background processesAnd this includes real-time synchronization for some applications, such as Gmail.

Therefore, if Gmail isn't showing new emails until you refresh the page, it's worth checking the app's settings. Follow this path: ConfigurationApplicationsGmail and click on the option Battery. In the section Battery savingselect Without restrictions so that the battery saver does not restrict Gmail activity.

With this adjustment, the app will almost certainly start showing real-time notifications. However, keep in mind that Keeping Gmail always running in the background will affect battery life.But it's a price you have to pay if you want to keep up with your inbox.

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Gmail app notification issues

Another section you should check if Gmail isn't showing new emails until you refresh is Notifications. This is where you tell the app which notifications to show and when. To see your alerts, They must be enabled for all new emails or the category you prefer. Follow these steps:

  1. Open the Gmail app.
  2. Tap the three horizontal bars icon in the top left corner.
  3. Scroll down and tap on Configuration.
  4. Select the email address that is having problems.
  5. In the section Notifications, Make sure the "All" option is selected.
  6. Now it's time to Manage notifications and turn on the switch to Show notifications.
  7. If you want to see floating notifications, turn on the following switch.
  8. You can also enable notifications on the lock screen.

Other solutions for when Gmail doesn't show new emails until you refresh the page

If the problem persists and Gmail doesn't show new emails until you refresh the app, you can try other solutions, both in the mobile app and in the browser. Let's assume that Open Gmail in your browser And you notice there are no new messages in your inbox, even though you clearly know they've arrived. Reloading the page is the quick fix, but first try the following:

  • Check your internet connectionIt's obvious, but it's worth noting if Gmail doesn't show new emails until you reload.
  • Clear your browser cacheExcessive cached data can block automatic tray updates. If you're unsure how to fix this, see the article. How to delete Cookies and Cache.
  • Beware of browser extensionsIf you have several extensions installed—productivity extensions, ad blockers, or antivirus software—these can interfere with Gmail's dynamic loading. Therefore, open Gmail in your browser and disable these extensions one by one. If any are causing problems, this will help you identify them.
  • Have limited storage spaceGoogle offers 15 GB of free storage shared between Gmail, Drive, and Photos. If that limit is reached, new emails will not be delivered.
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Other solutions in the Gmail mobile app

On the other hand, if synchronization problems persist in the Gmail mobile app, you can try other steps. First, it's very important that Keep the app updatedPlease note that older versions may have synchronization errors.

It is also advisable that Use the official Gmail app to avoid synchronization failures and other problems. When using external clients to manage Gmail, such as Outlook, Google's service is more likely to experience errors. If this is the case for you, download the official Gmail app and sign in with your Google account.

In conclusion, all is not lost when Gmail doesn't show new emails until you refresh the page. The solutions presented in this article can help you. regain peace and comfort from using Google Mail. Apply these tips and you'll never miss an important notification in your daily life.