Shortly after reports of a new Gmail design, we now have a sneak peek at the new look of Google's email service, courtesy of our friends from Android Authority and The Verge.
The Gmail redesign was long overdue, and Google finally promised a "fresh, clean look for Gmail on the web." The question now is whether longtime Gmail users will like what Google did to change up the aesthetics of the service.
Gmail New Look Leaked
An email from Google to G Suite administrators hinted that a Gmail redesign was coming soon, according to recent reports. The new look for Gmail will also come with several new features, but there were no screenshots on what exactly Google will change with the email service's design.
Fortunately, Android Authority and The Verge were able to acquire images of the new Gmail interface. According to Android Authority, a trusted source offered the early look at the Gmail redesign, which confirmed reports of features such as Smart Reply, email snoozing, and a sidebar that provides easy access to Google apps such as Calendar. The Verge, meanwhile, said that the new look for Gmail was being tested within Google and trusted partners and that the redesign includes subtle elements of the company's Material Design language.
The new Gmail will apparently offer users with three layouts to choose from. The Default View shows users the kind of attachments to their emails through different colored icons, while the Comfortable View uses the familiar paperclip icon to signal an attachment. There is also the Compact View, which is similar to the Comfortable view but with less vertical white space.
Looking at the screenshots, users who are accustomed to the current look and functionality would not have to be scared of the upcoming changes. This is still Gmail as it is now, but inspired by Google's Material Design language that emphasizes clean and minimalist lines, contrasting against bold graphics. The new features are welcome additions, but they will not get in the way of how Gmail works right now.
When Will The Gmail Changes Take Effect?
Google is said to be planning to roll out the new look of Gmail to G Suite and regular users over the coming weeks, though no specific date has been mentioned yet.
Google will hold this year's I/O developer conference from May 8 to May 10. Officially unveiling and launching the new look for Gmail at the annual event makes sense, so users may be looking at less than a month before they are able to enjoy the Gmail redesign and new features.
