Google upgrades Gmail with Gemini AI features

MANILA, Philippines – Google is introducing a major update to Gmail, bringing Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools into the inboxes of more than two billion users worldwide.

The upgrade, powered by Gemini, expands Gmail’s ability to generate emails, summarize conversations, and improve inbox search, marking one of its biggest changes in recent years.

Experts say the shift may feel seamless for users, but it carries important decisions about how much access they allow AI to have over their personal data.

AI features in Gmail

The new tools are aimed at improving email management for users handling large volumes of messages by automating routine tasks.

Gemini works as an assistant inside Gmail, helping draft replies, condense long threads, and surface important information without requiring users to manually sort through their inbox.

Some of these tools may be enabled by default, so users could start using them without actively turning them on.

Privacy and data concerns

The deeper integration of AI means the system can interact with sensitive and personal email content, raising concerns about privacy and data access.

Gmail’s Vice President of Product, Blake Barnes, said the company does not use personal emails to train Gemini and that user data is handled with care.

He added that users place a high level of trust in Gmail, and that it is Google’s responsibility to provide tools that help manage inboxes effectively.

Gmail outage and reliance

The rollout comes shortly after some users experienced delays in sending and receiving emails, an issue Google later confirmed had been resolved.

As the update continues to roll out, users are advised to review their settings and understand how AI tools interact with their inbox to maintain control over their data. (By Rojelyn Cona, INQUIRER.net Intern)