Google is integrating AI across its services, enhancing productivity and simplifying user experiences from Search to Workspace. Currently, Google is testing a new feature in the Gmail app for Android users. Named “reply suggestions from Gemini,” this feature utilizes Google’s AI model, Gemini, to automatically generate response suggestions for incoming emails, aiming to streamline email communication.
As noted by Android code expert AssembleDebug, this feature is currently hidden within developer flags but offers a glimpse into the future of email interactions. When enabled, Gemini analyzes incoming emails and suggests three contextually relevant reply options. These AI-generated responses range from short phrases to complete sentences, promising to significantly streamline the process of composing email replies, saving users time and effort.
Reportedly, the effectiveness of these features depends on their user-friendly nature. Users can conveniently select from a variety of suggested replies with just a single tap, which then automatically populate the compose field. Moreover, users have the flexibility to personalize the message before sending it. This tool aims to assist users in crafting swift, concise responses, ultimately cutting down on the time typically spent composing lengthy emails.
Remarkably, Google has previously incorporated Gemini into Gmail. Google One AI Premium subscribers currently benefit from a beta feature named “ Help me write,” utilizing Gemini to aid in composing new emails prompted by users. However, this upcoming “reply suggestions from Gemini” feature will distinguish itself from the “Help me write” feature. It will provide users with pre-written responses for expedited communication.
Additionally, as part of its efforts to enhance AI responses, Google has integrated a feedback mechanism within the feature. Users who come across irrelevant or inaccurate suggestions can tap on the “bad suggestions?” prompt to notify Google, contributing to the improvement of the AI’s accuracy over time.
While accessible through developer flags at the moment, Google has not disclosed the official launch date for “reply suggestions from Gemini.” This indicates that Google may still be fine-tuning the feature and gathering user feedback before a broader rollout.
A Vision of Enhanced Gmail Experience
Meanwhile, the implementation of AI-generated replies reflects Google’s aim to enrich the Gmail experience for Android users. This feature is in line with the previously unveiled “Help Me Write” capability, enabling users to direct Gmail on the type of email they intend to compass, with the app generating the draft accordingly. Moreover, Google is investigating the incorporation of voice commands for email composition, further simplifying the process.
As per reports, the upcoming ‘Voice-Activated Draft Email’ feature will introduce a voice-driven interface within Gmail. Users can initiate the composition of a new email or response by tapping a microphone icon and activating voice recording. Upon dictating their message users can opt for the ‘Create’ option, where Gmail will utilize AI technology to transform the spoken instructions into a written email draft. As reported by Android Police, this feature is currently in the developmental stage. Although its code was initially detected in October 2023, the precise release date remains unconfirmed
