Google, at the I/O developer conference 2024 held on May 14th, announced an array of key features, one of which left users intrigued, was the contextual smart replies coming for Gmail on both Android and iOS. Users have been long waiting for the update to be rolled out and would be relieved to know that the Gemini-powered update is finally here and will be able to capture the intent of the message and provide more contextual responses, bringing in great use and convenience.
Google finally rolls out Gemini-powered contextual smart replies in Gmail app on Android and iOS
I/O 2024 marked some major feature announcements, and the one that had us hooked was contextual smart replies coming to Gmail. While the Gemini-powered capability seemed promising, it was merely mentioned at the keynote, with users looking forward to the feature being rolled out. Those that have been long anticipating for the upgrade to come out, would be happy to know that it is finally here.
Gmail has been offering smart replies since 2017, where you can reply to automated responses when on the go or in a hurry. However, the responses were limited and lacked understanding of the sender and recipient’s context. With Contextual Smart Replies coming to Gmail, users will be able to get more detailed responses that are tailored to the situation and more contextually aware.
When a user prompts for an email reply, three Smart replies based on the entire content of the email thread come up in the form of a carousel for users to choose from, and each carries a different tone. If users want to preview the content, they can long press on the particular response, and if they want it to be added to the email, all they need to do is tap on the response, and it will be added to the body of the email. It will even go ahead with adding a greeting and closing. Users have the option to make the necessary tweaks before sending the email.
Google Workspace Updates shared the exciting news of the new feature by stating:
We’re excited to announce a new Gemini feature in Gmail, contextual Smart Replies, that will offer more detailed responses to fully capture the intent of your message.
The new Contextual Smart Replies is currently available for Gemini Business, Education, Education Premium, Enterprise, and Google One AI Premium subscribers. It builds on the original Smart Replies option and will be available for both Android and iOS. Currently, it is only offered in English, but it will be more widely available in the coming weeks.