Comparison
Gmail nudges not enough? Let Emily follow up
Gmail's nudges bring an old sent email back to the top of your inbox with a hint to follow up. Useful, when they show up. But you can't pick which emails get nudged or when, and the follow-up is still yours to write. Emily follows up for you on the ones that matter.
What Gmail nudges do
- Gmail suggests sent emails you may need to follow up on, at the top of your inbox.
- The only control is on or off (Settings, General, Nudges).
- Gmail chooses which emails and when. The follow-up is yours.
Nudges remind you. Emily asks them.
| Gmail nudges | Emily | |
|---|---|---|
| Which emails | Gmail decides | The ones you Cc her on |
| When | Gmail decides | When the answer is overdue or incomplete |
| Who writes the follow-up | You | Emily, in the same thread |
| A partial answer | No nudge once they reply | Emily asks for what's still missing |
| Outlook, phone, other apps | Gmail only | Any email app |
| Cost | Free | Free to start |
A better setup: nudges for everything, Emily for what matters
Leave nudges on as a safety net. For the emails where you really need an answer, add Emily on Cc when you send them. She takes the follow-up from there.
Waiting for Priya
Done
Illustrative example. Names are made up.
Or skip the chasing: CC Emily.
Send the email you were already going to send and add Emily on Cc. If the answer isn't complete, she follows up in the same thread until it is, then closes the loop for everyone. No setup, no inbox access, no new app.
Questions
How do I turn Gmail nudges on or off?
On a computer: Gmail, Settings, See all settings, General, then Nudges. You can turn "Suggest emails to follow up on" on or off. On the Gmail app, it's under Settings for your account, then Nudges.
Why didn't Gmail nudge me about an email?
Gmail decides which sent emails to surface. There's no way to mark a specific email for a nudge or set the timing yourself, so important threads can slip through.
Does Emily need access to my Gmail?
No. You Cc Emily on the emails that matter. She only sees those, and never reads the rest of your inbox.
Can I keep nudges on and use Emily?
Yes. Nudges cost nothing to leave on. Cc Emily on the emails where you actually need an answer.
Still unsure? Talk to Emily on Discord