So, you want to use Mac OS X Mail with Gmail? While Snow Leopard makes the default setup very easy, there are some rough edges of Google’s somewhat-wonky IMAP setup that need to be smoothed off for a better experience. Like that pesky [Gmail] thing, or the fact you can end up with 17 “Deleted Messages” folders for no apparent reason.
I’ve written out the steps to reach “Gmail IMAP in Mac OS X Mail” nirvana. While that doesn’t roll off the tongue, it does soothe the soul of the Gmail-using Mac lover.
Download my helpful PDF here, and if you find any bugs in it, please let me know.
Please note this was written using Gmail in Fall 2010 and with a Mac running 10.6 Snow Leopard. Mail in older versions of OS X should behave the same way, however.
FLICKR
YOUTUBE
RSS
Great article. I followed the directions and really dig the results. I use Mail's rules and folders to organize, which I now realize takes the message off the server. In any event, I have a drop down "On My Mac" where those folders live, but gmail in the past and still in the present likes to add folders, right now 'Drafts (acct)' and 'Sent Messages (acct).' When I changed to your system, I deleted whatever the old folders it created, but it's back. Any idea how to fix this?
- spam
- offensive
- disagree
- off topic
LikeGreat tip. I am using gmail across two macs and have them both set up much cleaner using your guide. I do have one thing I wanted to see if you can help me fix. Under the Gmail folder, I have an 'All Mail' folder showing up. Is there anyway to remove that from view?
Thanks again this tip was very useful!!!
- spam
- offensive
- disagree
- off topic
LikeMike, if you go into IMAP settings online, you can tell it to not show this folder in IMAP.
- spam
- offensive
- disagree
- off topic
Like