Google’s First Native iOS App For Gmail Fails

Google yesterday launched its first native mail app for the iOS platform, and then pulled it within two hours.

The release of the Gmail app for the iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch, briefly available on iTunes, was met by waves of #Fail tweets from disappointed users who said the app crashed before takeoff. One tweeter noted “Google’s weird at times. They release a great Gmail, a horrible Google Reader, and the wrong version of an app on the same day.”

The flood of complaints prompted an immediate, unreserved apology by the search engine company.

Sorry we messed up

“The iOS app we launched today contained a bug with notifications. We have pulled the app to fix the problem. Sorry we messed up,” said Google in an apology tweet.

“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,” added Product Manager, Matthew Izatt, in a post on the official Gmail blog.

The failed app was designed to take advantage of the touchscreen and notification capabilities of iOS 4+ devices and planned to incorporate some of the favourite features of the Gmail mobile web app. It was hoped that this app would enhance user experience and improve functionality. iOS users can already access Gmail through a mobile site or use the default mail app on their iOS device.

The company, which recently unveiled new looks for Gmail, its Google Calendar and Reader, did not say when the repaired app would be ready for round two.