How to Recall an Email in Gmail?

Sometimes, we end up sending a message to the wrong person on Gmail and then we wish to correct it. Gmail provides an option to undo an email message. When you send a message, Gmail gives you a cancel option.

In case you missed it, then you are going to see the Undo option to recall it. If you wish to recall an email after a minute, then you are out of time. However, there are a few things that you can do to avoid the repercussions. 

How can I Recall an Email in Gmail?

When Gmail gives you the undo option, you only get it for a split second. When the recipient receives the email and you miss this option. Nevertheless, you can extend the display time span of that option. 

On Web

Below are the steps that you need to follow to recall an email on web. 

Step 1: When you select the Send button and then click on Cancel given at the lower-left corner. 

Step 2: In case the option disappears really fast, then you must select the undo button. 

On Mobile App 

Step 1: If you want, you can also select the Cancel option on the web. You can see this option at the lower-right corner of the web. 

Step 2: Or else select the Undo option. 

Other Alternatives 

You are generally not allowed to extend the time limit of 30 seconds for recalling your email in Gmail. Therefore, you must try other solutions to fix this problem. 

Use Confidential Mode to Send Email 

Whenever you send an email message on Gmail, you can turn on the confidential mode. This way, the email contents will expire themselves from the Gmail box of the recipient. 

Step 1: Once you are done composing the message, select the toggle confidential mode icon. 

Step 2: Go to the Confidential mode window and then select an expiration mode. 

Step 3: You can also check the SMS passcode option if you want your recipient to verify the contact details. However, you must enter their contact details. 

Use Google Docs

Before you send any message on email, you must first write the content on Google Docs. After that, you can share the message with the other person. Doing this has been extremely useful in avoiding typing errors. If you want, you can also restrict the document later on. 

Step 1: First of all, sign in to your Google Docs account. 

Step 2: When you are done writing your email message, you must click on the Share button given at the top-right corner. 

Step 3: Add the email address of the recipient and then select Restricted under the General access section. 

Step 4: Select Send. 

What to Do If You are not able to Send an Unsent Email?

If you miss the undo option by any chance, then you won't be able to revert it. Nevertheless, you can take actions so you don't end up making the same mistake again. 

Change the Undo Settings on Your Desktop

Gmail displays the undo option only for 5 seconds. If you wish to intend it for a longer duration, you can configure the Gmail settings as mentioned below. 

Step 1: First of all, you are required to sign into your Gmail account. 

Step 2: After that, go to the Settings icon given at the upper-right corner of your window. 

Step 3: Then, select the option of See all Settings. 

Step 4: Go to the General tab and then navigate to the Undo Send field. 

Step 5: After that, go to the dropdown option and then select Send cancellation period field. Then, select the period 5, 10, 20 or 30 seconds. 

Turn on Confirm Before Sending the Option.

In case you are using Gmail on your smartphone, you must turn on the option that shows the confirmation prompt before sending the message. 

Step 1: Open the Gmail app. 

Step 2: Open the menu given at the upper-left corner. 

Step 3: Select Settings and then go to General Settings. 

Step 4: After that, go down to the Action Confirmations section. Then, check the checkbox of confirm before setting. 

Tell the Receiver

In case you were not able to undo your email, then you must tell the recipient that the email you sent wasn't meant for them. Moreover, you can request them to delete the message if possible.