outlook Android app notification buttons not working

Question

When clicking "archive", for example, the notification goes away, however the email is not actually archived. Also, the notification ends up appearing later on. It's very annoying, and this has always been an issue since I remember (at least a year).

This happens with IMAP and normal outlook accounts. It's very annoying, hope this bug is solved soon.

Answer 1

Hi Jorge, this is Kimberly, an independent advisor, I'm glad to assist you today.

This problem has been acknowledged by both users and Microsoft support. A recent update to Outlook broke notification delivery for many users (including normal accounts), with some only resolved by downgrading or switching apps.

What you can do as a workaround:

A. Check and Fix Basics

Ensure app notifications are enabled in your Android settings:

Go to Settings → Apps → Outlook → Notifications, and enable all necessary channels.

Verify battery settings:

Disable Do Not Disturb, ensure Outlook isn't listed in Sleeping Apps.

Set background and power restrictions to Unrestricted.

B. Remove & Reinstall or Switch Versions

Try clearing Outlook’s cache and data, or uninstalling and reinstalling the app entirely.

For some, reinstalling or reverting to the Lite version of Outlook restored notifications.

C. Use Outlook Lite (Temporarily)

Outlook Lite notifications work while the main Outlook app fails. You can use it as a workaround.

D. Change Account Type If Possible

Avoid setting up accounts via IMAP, Outlook mobile expects Exchange or Microsoft 365 accounts for reliable push support. IMAP sync remains broken.

Should you have questions, please let me know.

Best regards,

Kimberly

Answer 2

Hello Jorge,

Update Outlook to version 4.2032+.

Go to Outlook Settings → Mail Notifications → Custom Actions.

Choose actions like Read & Archive or Archive only, and remove unused options. This helps streamline notification behavior.

If the issue persists, in the Outlook Android app: Settings → tap the account → Reset Account.

This clears the local cache without removing full setup details, and often clears notification issues.

Regards,

Kimberly