Google has made changes to how email tracking works, putting more focus on user privacy. These updates affect how open rates are tracked, how Gmail displays emails, and how users report spam.
For anyone running outreach campaigns, it’s important to understand what’s changed and how to adjust your strategy to keep engagement high.
What Changed?
Email open tracking traditionally relied on tracking pixels (tiny, invisible images). When someone opened your email, the pixel loaded and signaled an “open.”
With Google’s update, Gmail now:
Blocks tracking pixels by default (“Images are not displayed” warning).
Shows users a “This message may be suspicious” banner.
Prominently displays a Report Spam button.
👉 What this means: Unless recipients manually allow images, open rates will no longer reflect real engagement.
Why It Matters
These changes create a few challenges for outreach campaigns:
Open rates become unreliable – You won’t get accurate data on who actually read your email.
Higher spam risk – Gmail’s new warnings and spam button increase the chance of false reports.
Weaker A/B testing – Subject-line testing that relies on open rates won’t be accurate.
Reduced visibility – Campaign performance data based only on opens is now misleading.
How to Adapt Your Outreach
Here are practical ways to keep your campaigns effective:
Minimize Images
Images (logos, banners, signatures) can trigger Gmail’s warnings. Use plain-text style emails when possible. They feel more personal and often perform better.
Tips for plain-text success:
Strong subject line: Speak to pain points (“Struggling to get replies?”)
Clear, direct copy: Keep it short and focused on value.
Simple CTA: End with one clear action (“Can we book a 15-minute call next week?”).
Turn Off Open Tracking
Because Gmail sometimes preloads images before an email is opened, open tracking can show false results. Turning it off improves deliverability and reduces the risk of being flagged.
To disable:
Open your campaign in edit mode.
Toggle off open tracking.
Diversify Beyond Email
Don’t rely on email alone. Use LinkedIn outreach and other channels inside Outreachly to connect with prospects. Our AI tools (like AI Employee and SmartEngage) help you scale conversations across multiple platforms.
The Bigger Picture
Google’s changes may feel limiting, but they push teams toward smarter, more genuine engagement. Instead of chasing open rates, focus on clicks, replies, and conversations, the real drivers of pipeline growth.
🚀Success! Stay focused on clicks, replies, and real conversations; that’s where true engagement happens.