New Delhi: Google may finally be preparing to fix one of Gmail for Android’s most persistent limitations. A new test suggests the Android app could soon allow users to create, edit, and delete custom labels directly from their phones, a feature that has long existed on desktop Gmail and Apple devices.
If rolled out publicly, the update would close a major feature gap between Android and other platforms. Until now, Android users had to rely on Gmail’s web version to manage custom labels, despite using Google’s own mobile operating system.
Android catches up with iOS and desktop gmail
According to a report by Android Authority, the feature was discovered in Gmail for Android version 2025.12.29.855765709. Release after enabling hidden options. Once activated, users can create new labels, rename existing ones, or delete them without leaving the app.
Google has reportedly added a “Create label” option to Gmail’s sidebar menu. The flow closely resembles how label creation already works on iOS and desktop Gmail, making the experience familiar for users who switch between platforms.
How label management works on Android
Managing labels in the test build appears simple. Users can go to Settings, tap Inbox, and then select Manage labels to rename or delete custom labels. Labels created on desktop or iOS can also be edited on Android, as long as they belong to the user.
As with other Gmail versions, custom labels remain private and visible only to the account holder. Deleting an email removes it from both the inbox and the associated label, maintaining consistent behavior across platforms.
Google has not confirmed whether the feature will be released widely. Since it was enabled through internal testing tools, there is still a chance it may never reach the stable app.
Even so, the test signals that Google is at least reconsidering Android’s long-standing limitation. If launched, the update would finally put Gmail for Android on equal footing with Gmail on iPhone, iPad, and the web.