Gmail for the web hasn't had an update in quite a while. However, as is its style, Google has been busy beavering away in the background, and the fruits of its labors are almost ready for public consumption. So, expect a Material Design overhaul soon.

Inviting G Suite Admins to the Gmail Party

Google has sent out an email to G Suite administrators pre-warning them a new version of Gmail is in the works. The redesign will be officially announced in the coming weeks, with G Suite customers invited to join an Early Adopter Program (EAP).

When the EAP arrives it will introduce "a new design for the Gmail web interface, as well as several new features". Google is telling G Suite administrators about the changes first. However, the changes will also be made available to users with personal Gmail accounts.

Google lists the following features coming to Gmail:

  • A clean look for Gmail on the web.
  • Easy access to G Suite apps.
  • Smart Reply, just like on mobile.
  • The ability to "snooze" emails.
  • Native offline support.

According to TechCrunch, a reader has seen a Google employee testing the new design on public transport. He claims the new design looks like "a hybrid of Gmail and Inbox". Whether that's true or not it's guaranteed to follow Google's Material Design concept.

Google has promised to share more details on The Keyword and the G Suite Update blog when the EAP opens. We'll be sure to keep our eyes firmly peeled to find out when the new web version of Gmail is going to be made available to ordinary Gmail users.

Making Gmail Look Like the Mobile Version

With most of us checking emails on our phones these days Google will want to make the web version look more like the mobile version. However, this redesign clearly goes beyond looks, with new features on the way for people who still check their Gmail on the web.

Image Credit: Chris Schrier/Flickr