Gmail users can now ask Gemini to read, summarize emails
Google has introduced a new feature, Gmail Q&A, that allows Android users to interact with its artificial intelligence (AI) assistant, Gemini, on the email app. This update is specifically designed for those who subscribe to Gemini services. The tech giant also plans to extend it to iOS devices in the future.
A personal assistant within your Gmail app
Gemini functions as a personal assistant within the Gmail app, capable of reading and summarizing emails. Users can prompt Gemini with requests like, "Catch me up on the emails about quarterly planning," or ask it to search for specific details such as, "How much did the company spend on the last marketing event?" The AI assistant can also display unread messages and help view texts from a particular sender.
Gemini's integration marks a shift in Google's approach
The integration of Gemini into Gmail signifies a strategic shift by Google, from search to AI chat. While the traditional search bar remains, a Gemini button has been added next to it. This change encourages users to use an AI chatbot for summarizing information instead of manually searching through emails. However, the source email will still be cited in Gemini's responses for reference purposes.
How to access Gemini in Gmail?
To use the Gmail Q&A feature, subscribers need to click on the black star logo representing Gemini, located in the top-right corner of the app. Currently, this facility only has access to emails but Google plans to extend its connectivity to Drive account files in future updates. The company has also confirmed it'll gradually roll out this feature for Google Workspace customers, with add-ons like Gemini Business, Enterprise, Education and Education Premium as well as Google One AI Premium.
