Google has introduced an update to Gmail that will make it easier to find important information in user emails. The new feature, The Verge reports, will automatically show key data, such as package tracking or confirmation numbers, directly in search results or in a new “Coming Soon” section.
Image source: Google
As noted by Maria Fernandez Guajardo, senior director of products at Gmail, the updated cards will be even more useful and timely. For example, if you are waiting for the delivery of a product, the card will show the date of arrival of the package, and after receiving it will display a link to the store’s return policy.
The main categories for which the feature will be available include shopping, events, travel and bills. Gmail will automatically extract important information from emails and display it at the top. For example, if you’re looking for information about an upcoming flight by searching for the airline’s name, Gmail will immediately show a card with the flight details, eliminating the need to sift through multiple confirmation emails. If an event requires special attention—for example, when a product’s delivery date is approaching—cards will appear not only in the email, but also at the top of search results or at the top of the inbox interface.
Image source: Google
The introduction of such cards may cause a mixed reaction, because users do not always welcome changes to the familiar interface of their applications, which Google is well aware of. However, Guajardo is confident that if the cards are useful enough and can be easily removed, users will appreciate the innovation. “They won’t take up your entire inbox,” she assured.
Image source: Google