Google Notifier for Gmail - System Tray Integration
Gmail Notifier for Windows: A Convenient Desktop Solution
Despite being somewhat dated, Google’s official Gmail Notifier for Windows remains a recommended email application featured on our list of the Best Windows Software.
For users who frequently work within a web browser, a Gmail extension can suffice for email monitoring.
However, those who prefer not to keep a browser constantly open will appreciate the functionality offered by the Gmail Notifier.
Alternatives to Consider
The primary alternatives to Gmail Notifier include browser extensions, such as Google Mail Checker for Chrome.
More comprehensive desktop email clients, like Mozilla Thunderbird, also present viable options.
Although several unofficial utilities attempt to replicate the Gmail Notifier’s features, the official program effectively bridges the gap between web-based and desktop applications.
Platform Compatibility
It’s important to note that this particular program is exclusively designed for the Windows operating system.
Users on other platforms will need to explore alternative solutions for desktop Gmail notifications.
Initial Configuration of Gmail Notifier
Gmail Notifier is a straightforward application characterized by its limited number of configuration choices. During the installation process, users are presented with options regarding automatic startup execution and the utilization of Gmail for sending emails.
By default, both of these options are pre-selected, and maintaining these settings is generally recommended. Enabling Run on startup guarantees continuous operation of Gmail Notifier, allowing it to consistently monitor your email account for incoming messages.
Furthermore, selecting Use for outgoing mail configures Gmail to intercept mailto: links across all applications. Consequently, clicking an email link within any Windows program will initiate a new compose window within Gmail Notifier.
Account Login
Upon the initial launch of Gmail Notifier, users will be required to authenticate by entering their Google account username and password.
Selecting the "Remember my credentials" checkbox will prevent subsequent login prompts. However, if your Google account is protected by Google Authenticator, an application-specific password must be generated and used instead of your primary account password.
Detailed instructions for creating an application-specific password can be found in the following section.
Important Note: Utilizing an application-specific password enhances security when employing two-factor authentication with Google Authenticator.
Addressing Common Issues
During the initial setup of Gmail Notifier, a few potential problems might arise.
If your Google account is protected by two-factor authentication through Google Authenticator, the application will request an application-specific password rather than your standard password. Navigate to the Authorized Applications section of your Google account settings online. There, you'll find a "Generate Password" form at the bottom of the page, which allows you to create a new password specifically for Gmail Notifier.
A "Service temporarily unavailable" error message may also appear. This is a result of Gmail employing HTTPS encryption for secure email transmission.
The original Google Notifier installer does not natively support HTTPS. However, an official patch is available for download to resolve this incompatibility. You can obtain the notifier_https patch directly from Google by clicking here.
- First, ensure the Gmail Notifier application is completely closed.
- Extract the contents of the downloaded .zip file.
- Double-click the notifier_https.reg file within the extracted folder.
- Confirm the prompt that appears, authorizing the changes.
Following the installation of this patch, a restart of Gmail Notifier is necessary for the changes to take effect and for the application to function correctly.
How to Use Gmail Notifier
The application functions with simplicity. Gmail Notifier resides in your system tray and periodically checks for incoming mail. Upon detecting new messages, the icon will be highlighted, and a preview will appear for each received email.
A double-click on the Gmail icon will redirect you directly to your Gmail inbox. Alternatively, a right-click allows for an immediate check for new mail or access to the application’s settings.
Notifier Options
The Options window is designed with a streamlined interface. Here, you can control how Gmail manages mailto: links and specify the browser Gmail Notifier utilizes to launch Gmail. The default setting employs your system’s designated browser.
Selecting a mailto: email link within any application (provided this feature isn't disabled) will initiate a Gmail Compose window directly in your web browser, mirroring the experience of a desktop email client. This eliminates the need for manual copying and pasting of email addresses.
Users of Google Chrome can achieve system-wide mailto: link support within Gmail without needing the notifier. Simply access Gmail in the newest Chrome version, and you'll be prompted to enable this functionality if it isn't already active. However, this tool remains beneficial for those who prefer alternative browsers like Firefox.
We are interested in learning about your preferred method for tracking new Gmail messages. Please share your approach in the comments below!
