Google has begun rolling out the ability to create new labels directly within the Gmail app for Android, addressing a longstanding limitation compared to the desktop version of the service.
Until now, Android users could only create labels through Gmail on the web, which meant switching devices or opening a browser to perform a basic inbox organisation task.
The new option appears inside the navigation drawer under “Create label,” positioned between “Manage subscriptions” and any existing labels listed in the sidebar (via 9to5Mac).
Tapping the option opens a dedicated “New label” screen that allows users to enter a label name and confirm creation without leaving the mobile interface.
Some users may also notice a small circular badge on the hamburger menu icon, indicating that the feature has been enabled on their account.
Gmail’s mobile apps have historically lagged behind the desktop version in organisational controls, even as Google has steadily modernised the interface and search capabilities.
The introduction of mobile label creation brings Android closer to feature parity with iOS, where users have already been able to create new labels directly within the app.
Google has also expanded label management options in Settings, allowing users to navigate to Settings > Gmail address > Notifications > Manage labels and delete labels directly from their device.
Previously, deleting labels required access to the web interface, which added unnecessary friction for users managing multiple folders and filtering rules.
Colour customisation for labels remains unavailable on Android, meaning visual organisation options are still more limited than those offered on desktop.
However, the addition of label creation significantly reduces the need to rely on the web app for everyday inbox management tasks.
The feature is rolling out on an account-by-account basis, so availability may vary even between different Gmail addresses signed in on the same device.
