Set up your iPhone
TabMail for iOS is a complete email app. You do not need Thunderbird or the desktop search helper.
Install and sign in
- Install TabMail from the App Store. The App Store lists current device and iOS requirements.
- Open the app and follow the welcome and sign-in steps. Use your existing TabMail account if you already have one.
- Connect your email account. You can add more accounts later in Email Accounts.
- Leave the app open for the first sync. You can start reading recent mail while older messages are indexed.
Your TabMail account gives you access to the AI service and your plan. Your email accounts are the mailboxes you connect to the app. Signing into TabMail and connecting a mailbox are separate steps.
Connect your email
- Gmail or Outlook — Choose the provider and complete its sign-in and permission screens.
- iCloud — Use your Apple Account email and an app-specific password. Follow the password help link in the app; your usual Apple Account password is not the app-specific password.
- Other IMAP accounts — Enter the email address, password, and IMAP and SMTP server details supplied by your email provider. Some providers require an app password.
If mail sign-in fails, start with Connection and sync troubleshooting.
Your first few minutes
Open an email to read its summary. Try asking the chat assistant “What needs my attention today?” Then open a reply, review the suggested draft, and tap Use Suggestion if you want to use it.
Next: Read and triage your inbox or Write, reply, and dictate.
Last updated: September 30, 2026