Users of various devices, including Samsung models, have encountered significant screen flickering issues while using the Gmail app, disrupting their ability to read emails and send messages. Some individuals have reported instances where text disappears entirely, while others see only blank white boxes instead of the expected content.
Expressing frustration, Gmail users have turned to social media platforms to voice their grievances. One user, Jeremiah, took to X to address Gmail directly, stating his dissatisfaction with the ongoing flickering problem on his Samsung Fold folding phone’s inner screen.
Similar complaints have surfaced on Google’s support forums, with users expressing their struggles with screen flickering that hinder their ability to read emails despite attempting various troubleshooting steps like force-stopping the app, clearing the cache, and device restarts.
Google product expert Kimiya Kitani has identified the root cause of the issue, pointing to Android System WebView, a critical Android component that enables apps to display web content within the app interface. Kitani noted that certain devices, particularly Samsung tablets, are experiencing intermittent problems related to Android System WebView, and Google has been notified of the issue for resolution.
Although the exact number of affected users remains uncertain, reports indicate that Samsung foldable devices such as the Galaxy Z Fold series and specific Galaxy tablets are among the most impacted devices. As a temporary workaround, Kitani suggests rotating the device as a potential solution to halt the screen flickering.
The recommended fix involves opening the email in portrait mode, rotating the device to landscape mode until the screen stabilizes, and then returning it to portrait orientation. This interim solution may help users cope with the problem until Google releases a permanent fix, providing some relief amidst the ongoing technical challenges.