Google fixed the most annoying thing about Gmail — and it’s hitting Android first
A Gmail for Android update takes the frustration out of copy-and-paste for email addresses
Here at Tom’s Guide our expert editors are committed to bringing you the best news, reviews and guides to help you stay informed and ahead of the curve!
You are now subscribed
Your newsletter sign-up was successful
Want to add more newsletters?
Daily (Mon-Sun)
Tom's Guide Daily
Sign up to get the latest updates on all of your favorite content! From cutting-edge tech news and the hottest streaming buzz to unbeatable deals on the best products and in-depth reviews, we’ve got you covered.
Weekly on Thursday
Tom's AI Guide
Be AI savvy with your weekly newsletter summing up all the biggest AI news you need to know. Plus, analysis from our AI editor and tips on how to use the latest AI tools!
Weekly on Friday
Tom's iGuide
Unlock the vast world of Apple news straight to your inbox. With coverage on everything from exciting product launches to essential software updates, this is your go-to source for the latest updates on all the best Apple content.
Weekly on Monday
Tom's Streaming Guide
Our weekly newsletter is expertly crafted to immerse you in the world of streaming. Stay updated on the latest releases and our top recommendations across your favorite streaming platforms.
Join the club
Get full access to premium articles, exclusive features and a growing list of member rewards.
Update: Gmail has an iOS upgrade to help you save time.
Gmail users with Android devices have long had a difficult time when it comes to copying and pasting email addresses. Whether you’re frustrated by the strange design decisions or the just have difficulty with what should be a simple task, it’s a big flaw in what’s otherwise one of the best email apps.
But it sounds like Google’s getting around to eliminating those copying-and-pasting woes. Android Police reports that Gmail has introduced a new pop-up menu to make copying and pasting an email address much more straightforward.
- Do more with the best productivity apps for your phone
- Best calendar apps
- Plus: Apple Glass and VR could use these smart rings to track your hand gestures
Specifically, the new notification appears once you tap on an emai address in the To, Cc or Bcc fields. You’ll see a bigger, more functional contact card that you can interact with in a number of ways, whether it’s copying text, adding information or some other task.
This new feature already looks leagues better than the mini-window that could previously pop open with an option to copy. While it worked well enough to feasibly call it a solution, it would often cover up some of the important text below the box.
Unfortunately, the feature isn't widely available yet. Though some users have apparently spotted the new menu on their devices, it hasn't gone live for everyone. Google has yet to adopt it as a widespread measure for all Android users, but that doesn't mean it's not on its way.
Currently, 9to5Google reports that the new pop-up menu has been seen on several devices running Gmail for Android v2021.02.05.357775197. Still, it could be some time before this feature makes its way to your phone. Hopefully, it will soon, as this improvement will certainly solidify Gmail’s status as one of the all-time greats when it comes to communication on the go.
Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips.
Brittany Vincent has been covering video games and tech for over 13 years for publications including Tom's Guide, MTV, Rolling Stone, CNN, Popular Science, Playboy, IGN, GamesRadar, Polygon, Kotaku, Maxim, and more. She's also appeared as a panelist at video game conventions like PAX East and PAX West and has coordinated social media for companies like CNET. When she's not writing or gaming, she's looking for the next great visual novel in the vein of Saya no Uta. You can follow her on Twitter @MolotovCupcake.

