Google is enhancing Gmail with new AI capabilities designed to simplify email management. On the web, a new Gemini side panel is being rolled out, enabling functions such as summarizing email threads and drafting messages. This tool offers “proactive prompts” and allows users to pose “freeform questions,” leveraging Google’s advanced models like Gemini 1.5 Pro. Additionally, Gmail’s mobile apps will soon include the ability to summarize email threads with Gemini.
These features are exclusive to paid Gemini users, including Google Workspace customers with a Gemini Business or Enterprise add-on, Gemini Education or Education Premium add-on, or Google One AI Premium subscribers. While these tools could be beneficial, users should exercise caution and double-check important emails, as AI can sometimes generate inaccuracies.
Google is also extending Gemini features to the side panels in Docs, Sheets, Slides, and Drive, following last month’s I/O announcement. Further AI enhancements for Gmail, such as “Contextual Smart Reply,” are still in development.
