Summary
The time it takes for BIMI to work after setup varies widely, ranging from a few hours to several weeks. This variability is attributed to factors such as DNS propagation times, the policies of individual mailbox providers (like Gmail, Yahoo, and AOL), domain and sender reputation, and the presence of a Verified Mark Certificate (VMC). Meeting the technical requirements, including proper DMARC setup and email authentication, is crucial, but the ultimate display time depends on the recipient's mail provider and their internal checks.
Key findings
- Time Variance: BIMI implementation timeline varies significantly, from a few hours to several weeks.
- Provider Dependency: Mailbox provider policies (Gmail, Yahoo, AOL, etc.) heavily influence display time.
- Reputation Impact: Domain and sender reputation affect how quickly and consistently BIMI logos appear.
- VMC Requirement: A Verified Mark Certificate (VMC) is specifically required for Gmail and iCloud.
- Technical Prerequisites: Proper DMARC setup and email authentication are essential for BIMI to function.
- DNS Propagation: DNS propagation times contribute to the overall activation timeline.
Key considerations
- DNS Monitoring: Monitor DNS propagation after publishing BIMI records.
- Provider Guidelines: Research and adhere to the specific BIMI guidelines for each mailbox provider.
- Reputation Management: Maintain a strong sender reputation to improve BIMI logo display rates.
- VMC Procurement: Obtain a VMC if targeting Gmail and iCloud users.
- Authentication Verification: Double-check that DMARC and other authentication protocols are correctly configured.
- Patience and Monitoring: Be prepared for a variable timeline and monitor BIMI implementation progress.
What email marketers say
12 marketer opinions
The time it takes for BIMI to work after setup varies significantly, ranging from a few hours to several weeks. The primary factors influencing this timeline are DNS propagation, mailbox provider policies, and domain/sender reputation. Some providers, like Yahoo and AOL, may display the logo within 24-48 hours, while others, such as Gmail, require additional verification steps like a VMC and may take longer. Meeting all technical requirements, including DMARC, is crucial, but even then, display is not guaranteed due to reputation checks and varying internal policies of each provider.
Key opinions
- Time Variance: BIMI activation ranges from a few hours to several weeks.
- Provider Dependency: Display time depends heavily on the policies and reputation checks of individual mailbox providers (e.g., Gmail, Yahoo, AOL).
- Reputation Matters: Domain and sender reputation significantly impact how quickly BIMI logos are displayed.
- VMC Requirement: Gmail and iCloud specifically require a Verified Mark Certificate (VMC) for BIMI to function.
- Technical Prerequisites: Meeting technical requirements, including DMARC setup, is essential for BIMI implementation.
Key considerations
- DNS Propagation: Account for DNS propagation time after publishing the BIMI record.
- Provider Specifics: Understand the specific requirements and timelines for each mailbox provider you're targeting.
- Reputation Building: Prioritize building and maintaining a positive sender reputation to improve BIMI display rates.
- VMC Investment: Factor in the cost and effort of obtaining a VMC if targeting Gmail and iCloud users.
- Authentication Setup: Ensure DMARC and other email authentication protocols are correctly configured before implementing BIMI.
Marketer view
Marketer from Email Geeks says that Yahoo BIMI can sometimes take a couple of weeks, and suggests contacting them using the provided link.
8 Nov 2023 - Email Geeks
Marketer view
Email marketer from Mailhardener Blog explains that BIMI implementation is not instant. It requires DNS propagation time and for mail providers to recognize the record. This may take anywhere from hours to a few days depending on the propagation and caching settings.
26 Aug 2024 - Mailhardener Blog
What the experts say
1 expert opinions
The time it takes for BIMI to fully function after setup varies due to multiple steps and dependencies, including DNS propagation times and the policies of individual mailbox providers. This can result in delays ranging from a few hours to several days or weeks.
Key opinions
- Variable Timeline: BIMI implementation time is not fixed and can vary significantly.
- Multiple Dependencies: The timeline is affected by several factors, not just the initial setup.
- Mailbox Provider Influence: Individual mailbox provider policies play a significant role in the activation time.
Key considerations
- DNS Propagation: Account for potential delays due to DNS propagation times.
- Provider Policies: Be aware that different mailbox providers have different policies affecting BIMI activation.
- Extended Delays: Plan for the possibility of delays extending to several days or weeks.
Expert view
Expert from Spam Resource explains that BIMI implementation involves multiple steps and dependencies. DNS propagation times and individual Mailbox providers policies all impact the time it takes for BIMI to fully function. This can result in a delay that extends from a few hours to potentially several days or weeks.
14 Dec 2023 - Spam Resource
What the documentation says
4 technical articles
BIMI implementation time varies significantly depending on DNS propagation, email provider caching policies, and internal reputation systems. While technical setup can be quick, logo display ranges from immediate to up to two weeks. Proper DMARC setup and email authentication are crucial prerequisites, and contacting support may expedite the process with some providers like Yahoo.
Key findings
- Time Variance: Logo display ranges from almost immediate to up to two weeks.
- DNS and Caching Impact: DNS propagation and email provider caching policies affect display time.
- Reputation Systems: Email providers' internal reputation systems influence logo visibility.
- DMARC Dependency: Correct DMARC setup is a prerequisite for BIMI implementation.
Key considerations
- DNS Propagation: Consider the time required for DNS changes to propagate.
- Provider Policies: Be aware of the specific implementation timelines and policies of each email provider.
- Authentication: Ensure proper email authentication is in place.
- Support Contact: Contact support for providers like Yahoo to potentially expedite the process.
Technical article
Documentation from Microsoft explains that while they support BIMI, the exact timeframe for logo display can vary based on their internal reputation systems and other factors. They recommend ensuring proper email authentication is in place for best results.
11 Jul 2022 - Microsoft Documentation
Technical article
Documentation from dmarc.org details that BIMI implementation depends on having DMARC set up correctly. Once prerequisites are met and BIMI records are published, the display time varies by email provider; some may show the logo almost immediately, while others conduct more thorough checks, extending the display time.
27 Feb 2025 - dmarc.org
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