Introduction to New AI Features in Gmail

Google has unveiled new artificial intelligence features in Gmail, an attempt to update its 22-year-old messaging app amid increasing use of AI. The new features will initially be available in English in the US.

Key Features

The new features include helping users write messages, finding information hidden in email inboxes, and providing daily to-do lists. Some features will be available for free to all users, while others will require subscriptions.

Personalized Writing Aid

All Gmail users will have access to the “Help Me Write” tool, which helps users with their grammar and wording. The technology analyzes users’ previous emails to better understand their writing style, allowing it to personalize emails and make real-time suggestions on how to respond to a message.

AI Overview Feature

Gmail also offers an AI overview feature that summarizes email exchanges and highlights key insights from longer threads. Both features will be available on the web and mobile versions of Gmail.

Paid Subscription Features

Google offers paid Pro and Ultra subscribers access to technology that allows users to ask natural language questions directly in the Gmail search bar. Subscribers also have access to a dedicated chatbot for follow-up questions. For example, instead of manually searching for last month’s electric bill, a user could ask, "What was my electric bill last month?" and the AI will scan the user’s email history, highlight the information, and provide direct access to all relevant messages.

AI Inbox Feature

Another feature, “AI Inbox,” is being made available to a handful of customers for testing. When enabled, the feature scans inboxes and suggests to-do lists and topics that users may want to explore. With the so-called “Catch me up” tool, users are now reminded of upcoming events and appointments.

Potential Risks and Limitations

Integrating AI directly into Gmail could pose risks, as large language models can sometimes present incorrect or misleading information. Although users can proofread AI-powered messages before sending, the technology can potentially make mistakes. However, users can disable AI features by opening their Gmail account settings and scrolling to the “Smart” features and personalization section under the “General” tab, then unchecking the “Enable smart features in Gmail, Chat, and Meet” checkbox and saving their changes.