We’ve all been there–that dreaded moment that occurs the instant you press send on a crucial email. It’s only then that you realize you haven’t attached a critical document, or you notice a spelling mistake on a job application email.
Luckily, if you are using Gmail, all is not lost. Gmail has a handy feature that allows you to unsend emails. By default, the undo command gives you five seconds to unsend your email, so you must be pretty quick. Let’s look at how to extend that comfort zone to up to 30 seconds.
What Is Gmail’s Send Delay?
Gmail’s unsend feature is something of a misnomer. When you press the unsend option, it doesn’t physically “unsend” your email. Instead, Gmail takes advantage of a pre-programmed delay in sending your email.
This built-in delay is what allows you to retract your message. Gmail sets the default time to a minimum of five seconds. Unlike a similar feature in Apple’s Mail program, there is no option to disable the feature completely. But if you want longer than five seconds then the delay can be extended to 10, 20, or up to a maximum of 30 seconds. As we describe below, changing the length of this delay is incredibly easy.
How to Extend Gmail’s Send Delay
The easiest way to extend the time is to log on to your Gmail account from a computer. Once you are in your account, follow the steps below to change the timing of your delay:
- Click the Settings icon on the top right-hand corner of the Gmail page.
- Select the See all settings option.
- Navigate to the Undo Send option and use the drop-down menu to change the timings.
- Scroll down to the bottom of the page and click the Save Changes button.
And that is all there is to it. Now, when you send an email, the undo option will be available for whatever time you selected.
No More Regretted Emails
This is an incredibly useful feature that can save your blushes and give you a little time to rectify mistakes. It is all too easy to rashly press the send button on an email and instantly regret it. But if you feel that five seconds isn’t a long enough delay, the solution is quick and easy.
Plus, there are plenty of other hidden Gmail features that might just help you out, too.
