For those in search of a straightforward and dependable email client, Apple’s Mail app emerges as an excellent option. It has improved significantly over time. However, a particular aspect of its functionality has left many users seeking alternatives such as Gmail or Outlook.

The issue revolves around the Archive option. When you archive an email while reading it, the Mail app automatically brings up the next email from your inbox. This feature can be useful for quickly skimming through newsletters but poses a problem when the next email is instantly marked as read—a scenario that may not be ideal for everyone, particularly if the email contains tracking elements or if it was intended for later review.

This seemingly minor detail diminishes user control, leading to some frustration. Fortunately, Apple has acknowledged this concern. In iOS 18.4, currently available in Developer beta, a hidden setting has been introduced to modify this behavior. The reasoning behind not making this adjustment the default setup and relegating it to a hidden option remains unclear.

For users on iOS 18.4 who frequently utilize the Mail app, adjustments can be made easily. Navigate to the Settings app, proceed to the Mail section, and select Delete or Move Message Action. From here, switch to the Don’t Select a Message option.

With this change implemented, when you choose to delete, archive, or move an email, the Mail app will refrain from automatically opening the subsequent message. Instead, you will be returned to the Inbox view. This marks a significant enhancement!

Additionally, for those utilizing devices equipped with Apple Intelligence, you may have observed a revamped appearance in the Mail app. It now features various categories, AI-generated summaries, and a priority email section, which can sometimes overlook truly essential messages. If you prefer a more traditional experience and wish to disable some or all of these new AI functionalities, a solution is at your fingertips. Refer to this guide to turn off all the new AI capabilities and restore the familiar format. This, of course, excludes the updated archiving option, which genuinely enhances the user experience.