Google has introduced a new feature for Gmail users on Android devices, allowing them to chat directly with its AI assistant, Gemini, to manage their emails. Named “Gmail Q&A,” this feature became available on Thursday and is currently exclusive to users who subscribe to Google’s paid Gemini service.
How Gmail Q&A Works
The Email Q&A feature enables users to utilize Google Gemini as a personal assistant within the Gmail app. This AI can read the user’s email inbox and respond to various queries. For example, users can ask Gemini to summarize specific topics like “Catch me up on the emails about quarterly planning” or request detailed information by asking questions such as, “How much did the company spend on the last marketing event?”
Integration and Future Expansion
Traditionally, Gmail users could search for specific information using the search bar at the app’s top. This feature is not being removed, but the Gemini button will be positioned next to the search bar, signifying Google’s shift towards integrating AI chat functionalities over traditional search methods. When Gemini provides information, it cites the original email, ensuring users can verify the source.
To access the new feature, paying users can click the black star logo, representing Gemini across Google’s suite of products, located in the top-right corner of the Email app. Email Q&A only has email access, but Google plans to extend this functionality to include files stored in users’ Drive accounts.
Paid Feature with Limited Availability
Email Q&A was first introduced to web users of Gmail in June, specifically for those who pay for Gemini or the Google One AI Premium service, which costs approximately $20 a month. This feature is part of Google’s strategy to offer advanced AI capabilities as a premium service, making it unlikely that free Gmail users will have access to Gmail Q&A in the near future.
