In Gmail, open Settings → See all settings → General → Desktop notifications. Choose New mail notifications on and click Save Changes. Keep Gmail open in a regular Chrome window and allow notifications for the Gmail site in Chrome.
01Allow alerts for Gmail alone
Section linkOpen Gmail and select the site information icon to the left of the address. If Notifications is blocked, allow it for Gmail. You can also review the entry under Chrome Settings → Privacy and security → Site settings → Notifications. Use your usual Chrome profile; Chrome does not deliver site notifications in Incognito.
02Send a message that should trigger an alert
Section linkLeave Gmail open and send a plain message from a different email account. If you use inbox categories, check that the message landed in Primary: Gmail’s new mail setting only alerts you about that category. If you choose Important mail notifications on, the message needs to be marked important. If the test message never arrives, troubleshoot delivery first.
03Check system notifications if the message arrives silently
Section linkIf Gmail is open, the message is eligible, and Chrome allows the site, check whether your computer permits Chrome to show notifications. Look for alerts from other sites in the same Chrome profile. If none reach the desktop, check the computer’s notification settings before changing more Gmail settings.