iPhone 2.0 software: Mail app appears to be stuck at "Checking for mail"
Symptoms
iPhone 2.0 or later software users may notice that the "Checking for mail" status note and activity wheel appear indefinitely.
Products Affected
iPhone, iPod touch, iPhone 3G, iPod touch (2nd generation)
Resolution
This may be due to an account not being able to fetch or push email. To resolve this, install the iPhone 2.2 software update. If you are still unable to receive email, try pressing and holding the Home button for at least 6 seconds or until the Mail app closes. Once done, please reopen the Mail application to verify you can receive mail.
If you are still unable to receive mail after installing the iPhone 2.2 software update and performing the aforementioned steps, the tips located in the iPhone Mail Troubleshooting Assistant will help you resolve most common email issues.