Google launches third-party add-ons for Gmail on web, Android
Google has finally launched third-party add-ons for Gmail, making its email service more engaging, especially for enterprise users. Third-party developers can directly bring their services to Gmail, allowing users to save time as they don't have to switch apps. Add-ons will help enterprise users complete several tasks by accessing their go-to apps directly from the inbox on the web and Android platforms. Know more!
Gmail Product Manager Aakash Sahney's statement
Sahney stated: "Rather than toggling between your inbox and other apps, use add-ons to complete actions right from Gmail. With Gmail Add-ons, your inbox can contextually surface your go-to app based on messages you receive to help you get things done faster."
Once installed, Gmail add-ons can be accessed on any device
In March, Google said it would integrate all third-party Gmail add-ons with its email service. Earlier, users were required to install plug-ins on each platform to complete specific tasks. Unlike such browser extensions, Gmail add-ons aren't limited to any particular environment. Once a user installs the add-ons, they can access the native apps on any device across the web and mobile platforms.
How to install add-ons in Gmail?
For installing the add-ons, users need to click on the "Settings" wheel on the top-right side of the Gmail window and select the "Get Add-ons" option. A list of add-ons currently supported by Gmail is shown; users can choose which plug-ins they want to install. As of now, there are around ten add-ons available. Users need not install them separately on every device.
iOS support not available yet
Currently, only business-centric Gmail add-ons are available. Such apps for regular users would be available soon. Also, the feature is currently available only on browsers and Android devices. Google spokesperson Brooks Hocog said: "We're working with Apple to bring Gmail Add-ons to iOS users."
List of available Gmail add-ons
According to Google, users can install these Gmail Add-ons: Asana, Dialpad, DocuSign (coming soon), Hire, Intuit QuickBooks Invoicing, ProsperWorks, RingCentral, Smartsheet, Streak, Trello, and Wrike. It also added, "If you're a developer, you can also easily create add-ons for your app or your organization - write your add-on code once, and it will run natively in Gmail on web and Android right away."
