Google’s Gmail iOS app crashes on launch day

Gmail users will have noticed that Google has made some dramatic changes to the look and feel of the web-based Gmail interface.

Unfortunately, news of the Gmail overhaul was rather overshadowed by the withdrawal of the Gmail App on both the Apple Appstore mere hours after its release. The email application was designed to work on the iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch.

“We’ve created a new Gmail app for iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch. We’ve combined your favourite features from the Gmail mobile web app and iOS into one app so you can be more productive on the go. It’s designed to be fast, efficient and take full advantage of the touchscreen and notification capabilities of your device. And it’s one more reason to switch to Gmail,” said Gmail product manager, Matthew Izatt, following the unveiling of Gmail’s new look.

Izatt later updated the blog post, admitting that the application contained a bug which broke notifications and caused users to see error messages when opening the app.

“Earlier today we launched a new Gmail app for iOS. Unfortunately, it contained a bug which broke notifications and caused users to see an error message when first opening the app. We’ve removed the app while we correct the problem, and we’re working to bring you a new version soon. Everyone who’s already installed the app can continue to use it,” said Izatt.

The app has been removed from the Apple AppStore until the problem is corrected.

In further apology, Gmail announced on its official Twitter account, “The iOS app we launched today contained a bug with notifications. We have pulled the app to fix the problem. Sorry we messed up.”

The application was designed to improve the Gmail experience for users of Google’s popular email program on Apple devices.