When Gmail will not sign in on your Android phone, the cause is usually a connection problem, an outdated app, or stored app data that has gone stale. These problems are easy to fix, and your emails are not at risk because they live on Google’s servers. Follow the seven fixes below in order, from quickest to most thorough.
1. Check Your Internet Connection
Open Chrome and load a website to confirm you are online. Turn Airplane Mode off, then switch between Wi-Fi and mobile data. If Gmail works only on Wi-Fi, open Settings, then Apps, then Gmail, and make sure mobile data and background data are allowed. Turn off Data Saver while you sign in.
2. Force Stop Gmail and Restart Your Phone
Open Settings, tap Apps, choose Gmail, and tap Force stop. Then restart your phone by holding the power button and choosing Restart. A fresh start clears temporary glitches that can block sign-in. Open Gmail again and try your login.
3. Update Gmail, Google Play Services and Android
Open the Google Play Store, tap your profile picture, then Manage apps and device, and install updates for Gmail. Also update Google Play services if it is listed. Then open Settings, go to System or About phone, and check for a software update. Outdated versions are a common cause of login errors.
4. Set Your Date and Time to Automatic
Wrong time settings can make Google reject your sign-in or verification code. Open Settings, search for Date and time, and turn on Set time automatically and Set time zone automatically. Restart Gmail and sign in again.
5. Clear the Gmail App Cache
Stored app data can become corrupted. Go to Settings, then Apps, then Gmail, then Storage, and tap Clear cache. This does not delete your emails or your account. Reopen Gmail and try again. Clear storage is a stronger option that signs you out of the app, so use it only if the problem continues.
6. Check Your Password in a Browser
Visit accounts.google.com in Chrome and sign in. If it works there, the problem is in the app. If it fails, tap Forgot password and reset it using your recovery phone or email. Approve any verification prompt sent to another device where you are signed in. Then return to the Gmail app and use your new password.
7. Remove and Re-Add Your Google Account
Open Settings, tap Passwords and accounts (or Accounts), choose your Google account, and select Remove account. Your emails stay in your Google account online. Restart the phone, open Gmail, tap Add another account, choose Google, and sign in again. Menu names vary by phone brand and Android version.
Still Locked Out?
If nothing works, wait a few hours before trying again, because too many attempts can temporarily limit sign-ins. Try signing in from a computer you have used before, and use Google’s account recovery page if needed. Keep your recovery phone number and email up to date so future problems are quick to fix.
Related guides: Gmail Login Not Working? 7 Quick Fixes, Gmail Login Not Working on iPhone and Gmail Password Reset.