Gmail on mobile now displays AI-generated summaries by default, marking a shift in how Google's Gemini assistant operates within inboxes.
Instead of relying on users to request a summary, Gemini will now decide when it's useful-typically for long email threads with multiple replies-and present a brief summary card at the top of the message.
These summaries update automatically as conversations evolve, aiming to save users from scrolling through lengthy discussions.
The feature is currently limited to mobile devices and available only to users with Google Workspace accounts, Gemini Education add-ons, or a Google One AI Premium subscription. For the moment, summaries are confined to emails written in English.
Google expects the rollout to take around two weeks, though it remains unclear when, or if, the tool will extend to standard Gmail accounts or desktop users.
Anyone wanting to opt out must disable Gmail's smart features entirely-giving up tools like Smart Compose, Smart Reply, and package tracking in the process.
While some may welcome the convenience, others may feel uneasy about their emails being analysed by large language models, especially since this process could contribute to further training of Google's AI systems.
The move reflects a wider trend across Google's products, where AI is becoming central to everyday user experiences.
