Gmail is poised for a significant AI-driven transformation. During the Google I/O 2024 conference on Tuesday, Google revealed that its Gemini AI technology will soon empower Gmail users to search, summarize, and draft emails more efficiently. This advanced AI will also handle more intricate tasks, such as processing e-commerce returns by locating receipts within your inbox and completing online forms.
In a demonstration at I/O, Google illustrated how a parent could use Gemini to quickly catch up on school communications by summarizing recent emails from their child’s school. This feature not only analyzes the content of the emails but also examines attachments like PDFs, providing summaries that highlight key points and action items.
Another showcased scenario involved a homeowner undertaking home renovations. Gemini in Gmail can assist by comparing quotes from various contractors who have sent their proposals via email.
From a Gmail sidebar, users can instruct Gemini to organize email receipts, save them to a Drive folder, or extract relevant information and compile it into a spreadsheet. This functionality can be particularly beneficial for frequent tasks, such as expense tracking for business travelers, with Gemini offering to automate these processes for future use.
However, it remains uncertain whether Gmail users will embrace this AI integration. Concerns linger from past experiences where Google scanned emails for ad targeting, despite the process being automated and devoid of human involvement. The current climate of heightened sensitivity regarding AI training and data usage might make users wary of allowing an AI to “read” their emails, regardless of the potential benefits and efficiencies.
In addition to its capabilities in Gmail, Gemini will also assist in drafting emails, according to Google.
Beyond Gmail, Gemini will extend its functionalities across Google’s Workspace suite, such as providing meeting highlights in Google Meet.
Gemini 1.5 Pro is set to be offered as an optional enhancement within Workspace Labs for individuals interested in exploring its features.
