Google’s simplified, integrated Gmail update will soon be available in its (virtual) workplace. Beginning February 8th, Google will make the new “integrated view” available to Workspace users as an opt-in option. If you prefer the current outlook, don’t hope to hold out for long. Users will begin seeing the new look by default in April, and by the end of the second quarter (that is, in June), it will be the “standard experience” with no way to return.
The “streamlined” web-based Chat client will also be available in the second quarter. Google has promised to provide more precise timing in the coming months.
The integrated view is intended to allow you to transition between mail, chats, and meetings without having to switch tabs. Eventually, you’ll be able to search for emails and chats together. Google is relying on notification “bubbles” to notify you of issues that require immediate attention. This ideally gives a clearer focus, as well as a less cobbled-together interface than what is now available — but without the convenience of having everything on one screen in certain circumstances.
Google’s move appears to be in response to competitors such as Microsoft Outlook. The redesign positions Gmail as a more unified, all-in-one tool that may serve as a replacement for Outlook for recent Workspace converts. It’s unclear if the update can have that impact, but Google is confident enough to transfer its work clients within the next few months.
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