How to Get Gmail Mobile For Your T-Mobile MDA and Similar Phones

Update: Google released a new version of Gmail Mobile, and this new version does not work on the T-Mobile MDA with the JVM offered here. The old version of Gmail Mobile can be downloaded here, and I confirm that that version works.

Today, Google released Gmail Mobile and the application is AMAZING. It works on many phones without hassle. But some phones, like the T-Mobile MDA (HTC Wizard) require a little trickery. This post will show you how to get the app running perfectly.

Before I go any further, here's the disclaimer: I make no guarantees that this will work for you. All I claim is that it worked for me!

The reason Gmail Mobile requires a little extra tinkering to get it to work on the MDA is that the MDA doesn't come with a Java Virtual Machine (JVM). The JVM is what allows you to install .jad files, and Gmail Mobile is a .jad file.

All you need are:

• Internet access, either through a data plan or through Wi-Fi
• ActiveSync and the USB cable
• 2 MB free space
  

Here is the 5-step process to get the JVM for the MDA and get the app running on your phone:

1. I downloaded the JVM found here. Clicking on that link now gives me an error (550 Failed to change directory.) Luckily I didn't delete the copy I downloaded after I installed it on my phone. I've uploaded it and you can download it here. It's a .cab file.
   
2. Use Active Sync to move the .cab file to your phone.
3. Find the .cab file on your phone and click on it. Follow the instructions on your phone to install it.
   
4. Soft restart your phone.
5. Point your phone's browser to http://www.gmail.com/app. Follow the instructions there.

That should do the trick. If you have any questions, post 'em in the comments and I'd be happy to help ya.

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Lastly, for those of you who are a little wary of this JVM and want to know more about where it came from, the site I originally got it from is called XDA-Developers. Check 'em out.