Gmail is entering another shift as artificial intelligence takes a more active role in everyday email tasks. Google is rolling out new Gemini-powered features to paying users, while several existing AI tools are also becoming widely available. As a result, Gmail increasingly blends traditional email functions with conversational and automated assistance. At the same time, this expansion signals a broader effort to make AI a core layer of the inbox experience rather than an optional add-on.
Smarter search, writing, and inbox organization
AI Overviews, which previously summarized email threads, now extend into Gmail search. Instead of listing matching emails, the system generates direct answers using message content and references the original emails. Meanwhile, a new AI proofreading tool introduces contextual writing suggestions that go beyond basic spellcheck. In addition, Google is testing an AI Inbox that restructures unread mail into priority-based sections. Consequently, important messages surface first, while lower-priority emails appear as summarized updates. However, this inbox format remains optional and limited to early testers.
AI access widens across subscription tiers
Google is also expanding access to several AI features that once required paid plans. Tools such as email summaries, writing assistance, and suggested replies are now moving to free accounts. Initially, newer features like AI search summaries and proofreading remain tied to premium subscriptions. Over time, however, these tools are likely to reach more users. Although AI features can be disabled, they remain bundled within Gmail’s broader smart functions. Therefore, opting out may also remove other conveniences, reshaping how users manage their inbox preferences.
