A glitch is affecting some Gmail users on Android devices, causing screen flickering and text disappearance. Owners of several devices, including Samsung models, have reported serious issues while using the Gmail app. Some users say text disappears entirely, while others only see blank white boxes instead of their messages.
Users Report Frustration on Social Media
Frustrated Gmail fans have taken to social media to complain about the gremlins. One user, Jeremiah, wrote on X: "@gmail, when will Android start working properly again on folding phones like my Samsung Fold? It's been four days now of this flickering issue on the inner screen — completely unacceptable."
Similar complaints have appeared on Google's support forums. One user explained: "Whenever I open an email, the screen flickers and makes it impossible to read. I've force-stopped the app, cleared the cache, restarted my tablet, and updated everything. Nothing has fixed it."
Cause Linked to Android System WebView
According to Google product expert Kimiya Kitani, the issue appears to be linked to Android System WebView — a core Android component that allows apps to display web content inside the app itself. "It seems some devices, including Samsung tablets, are experiencing intermittent problems with Android System WebView," Kitani said, adding that the problem has already been escalated to Google.
Affected Devices and Temporary Workaround
Although the total number of affected users is unclear, reports suggest Samsung foldables like the Galaxy Z Fold series and certain Galaxy tablets are among the devices most impacted. In the meantime, there is a temporary workaround that may help. Kitani says rotating the device can often stop the flickering. The suggested fix is simple: open the email in portrait mode, rotate the device to landscape mode until the screen displays correctly, then switch it back to portrait. For now, that appears to be the easiest solution while users wait for Google to release a permanent fix.
