The Gmail experience for mobile users is set to improve significantly. You may recall the Summary Cards feature, which highlights important information from emails in a visually appealing card format above the message. Previously, these cards mainly provided details related to package tracking and order information. Now, Google is enhancing them by adding contextual action buttons.
According to Google’s Workspace update, these advancements will allow users to better organize essential information across related emails, along with real-time status updates. For example, if you have a package expected to arrive, the corresponding email summary card will now include buttons for tracking the shipment and viewing order details. Additionally, users will see a real-time tracking bar showing the package’s location and logistical updates.
The rollout of these updated Summary Cards has already commenced and will soon be available to Gmail users on both Android and iOS. If you don’t see them yet, you can enable the feature by going to Gmail > Menu > Settings > General > Smart features and personalization. These Summary Cards will support a range of topics, including purchases, events, travel, and bills, and will feature quick action buttons such as “Remind me,” “Invite others,” and “Get directions.” A new “Happening soon” section will also appear at the top of the inbox, alerting users to upcoming events tied to a Summary Card.
In addition, an AI-driven update is coming to Google’s email app for iPhones. In late August, Google introduced Gemini into the Gmail app for mobile users, providing a new way to interact with their inbox. This feature allows users to issue natural language queries like “Catch me up on the emails about quarterly planning” or “Show me unread messages from XYZ,” making it easier to find relevant information without manual searching.
Gemini can extract specific information from emails, pull conversations on particular topics, and even summarize emails. While currently available just on Android, it is now starting to roll out on iOS devices as well. If you are in the middle of reading a message, you can tap the Gemini icon to get suggested next steps and replies based on the content of the email.
Presently, Gemini’s functionality is limited to email content, but plans are in place to expand its capabilities to include Google Drive files in the future. At the moment, this feature supports English and is accessible exclusively to paid Workspace accounts and Google One AI Premium subscribers.
From my experience, Gemini in Gmail has been a significant enhancement, particularly while using the Pixel 9—its convenience has been a standout feature for me. Furthermore, Gemini Extensions offer great assistance for those managing a lot of papers and files, often delivering summarized versions or highlighting key findings.
