Files usually go to the "Downloads" folder within your file manager app or "On My iPhone."
An overloaded browser cache can cause UI elements to glitch. Clearing your "Cookies and other site data" often resolves the problem.
Ad-blockers or security plugins can sometimes misinterpret the icon as a popup or script. Try disabling extensions to see if the icon reappears.
Adjacent to the download icon, you will often see the Google Drive icon. While the download icon saves the file to your physical hard drive, the Drive icon saves it to your cloud storage. Knowing the difference is key to managing your digital clutter effectively. Where Do Gmail Downloads Go?
While you cannot change the icon within the Gmail interface itself, many users look for a "Gmail Download Folder Icon" to use as a shortcut on their desktop. You can create a custom shortcut to your local downloads folder and change its icon to a Gmail-themed graphic using .ico or .png files found in various open-source icon libraries. This creates a visual "inbox" for your physical files that matches your email workspace.