Google is readying the Gmail v8.8 for Android, a software update that reportedly removes features rather than adding new ones. As per an unofficial changelog of the APK with version 8.8.12.209077217, the latest Gmail update on Android removes reply and follow-up 'nudge' reminders for Gmail accounts, removes Quick Responses for non-Gmail accounts on the app, and tweaks a title name in the Gmail account settings page. On the other hand, this update also reportedly marks the arrival of Inbox's 'Someday' snooze feature to the flagship Gmail app on Android.
The APK teardown comes courtesy a report by Android Police. Considering the development has not yet been confirmed by Gmail, it is important to take it with a pinch of salt. That said, let's get on with the details.
The nudges feature was rolled out earlier this year as part of Gmail's big design and feature overhaul. It was intended to help users with a gentle reminder to reply to or follow up on emails that have not received a response. The report suggests that the settings for this feature have been disabled, however the reminders might still be functional.
Another feature that has been removed in the latest version is Quick Responses. While Gmail accounts have smart features like Smart Compose and Smart Reply for AI-powered responses to emails, non-Gmail accounts on the app have had to suffice with Quick Responses, wherein users need to manually input sentences that act as preset reply shortcuts. The report claims that Quick Responses has been taken off from the app, at least for non-Gmail accounts that were tested in the teardown. Quick Responses has not yet been replaced by any of the Gmail-exclusive smart features.
There has been another minute change to the app's appearance. The My Account text in the Gmail account settings makes way for the Manage your Google Account text sitting right below it. This probably frees up a bit of pixel space in the menu. Lastly, Gmail is borrowing Inbox's 'Someday' snooze feature as noticed by a string found in the APK's code.
Users who haven't received the update yet can sideload it via APKMirror.
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