How to Disable Mail Categories on Mac

Apple's controversial Mail Categories feature has arrived on macOS Mail, enabled by default. This feature automatically sorts your inbox into four categories: Primary, Transactions, Updates, and Promotions. A hidden "All Mail" category contains all emails, including those excluded from the pre-sorted categories. Initially launched on iOS, this feature proved divisive, and its Mac and iPad rollout continues to spark debate.

Disabling Mail Categories on macOS Mail

Contrary to expectations, the Mail Categories setting isn't found in Mail's preferences. Instead, it's tucked away in a less-than-obvious contextual menu:

1. Open the Mail app on your Mac and navigate to your main inbox.

2. If this is your first Mail app launch post-update, a "Turn Off" toggle will appear at the top of the inbox. Click it to disable the feature.

3. Alternatively, select "All Inboxes" from the Mail sidebar. Locate the three-dot (...) menu above the inbox. Uncheck "Mail Categories" in the dropdown menu.

Disabling Mail Categories restores your inbox to its traditional view.

The Problem with Mail Categories

The screenshots below illustrate a common complaint: Mail Categories' inaccuracy. Months-old promotional emails and newsletters appear in the "Primary" inbox, while recent, important emails from individuals are buried in the poorly-signposted "All Mail" section. This haphazard sorting renders the feature unhelpful for many users.

This flawed categorization mirrors the iOS experience, prompting many to disable it across all devices (instructions for iOS and iPadOS are available elsewhere). This recalls a similar, albeit ultimately more refined, Gmail feature introduced over a decade ago.

While this guide explains how to disable Mail Categories on macOS, users who find it beneficial can leave it enabled. The three-dot (...) menu allows for easy toggling.

Share your thoughts on Mail Categories in the comments below. Do you find it helpful or frustrating? Let us know your experience!

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