Evolution or Stagnation? 5 Things We Want to See on Google's Gmail After 2 Decades

Joseph Henry, Tech Times 02 April 2024, 12:04 am

It's easy to imagine how Google's Gmail has progressed over the past two decades, and yet what we are seeing right now is only a part of what it can do in the future.

The popular email service, accessible on different platforms, has set a new standard for email communication. However, as time marches on, the once-innovative platform needs improvement amidst a rapidly evolving digital scene.

Here are the five things we wish to see soon on Gmail.

End-to-End Encryption: A Long-Awaited Addition

Evolution or Stagnation? 5 Things We Want to See on Google's Gmail After 2 Decades — Gmail has so much potential to shine since it can seamlessly introduce new features we haven't seen for years, such as smart search and more organized inbox management. Will they come sooner? (Photo: Solen Feyissa from Unsplash)

Google's promise of end-to-end encryption dates back to 2014, yet this crucial security feature remains absent from Gmail. While efforts to collaborate with Yahoo on implementing this encryption were announced, they ultimately bore no fruit.

In an era where privacy concerns are limitless, the absence of built-in end-to-end encryption leaves Gmail users seeking alternative solutions such as PGP or turning to rival services that offer superior security measures.

Enhanced Mobile Functionality: Link Insertion

Despite advancements in mobile technology, Gmail's Android, iOS, and iPadOS apps lack basic features such as the ability to insert links within messages. This omission places Gmail at a disadvantage compared to competitors, making it appear old-fashioned at present time.

With Apple's recent integration of this functionality into its Mail apps, the pressure mounts on Google to address this oversight and enhance the mobile user experience.

Taking Advantage of AI for Enhanced Search Capabilities

Google's prowess in artificial intelligence has yet to be fully harnessed within Gmail's search functionality. While smart replies offer a glimpse into AI's potential, there remains a vast untapped resource for improving search efficiency.

Imagine the possibilities of AI-driven search algorithms capable of identifying and organizing emails based on content, context, and user preferences. By leveraging machine learning technologies, Gmail could offer a more intuitive and personalized email experience for users.

Privacy-Centric Features: Introducing Hide-My-Email

We're at a peak where security problems are widespread and this is the time to be more privacy-centric when it comes to the apps we install on our devices. Gmail lags behind competitors in providing users with features that value their privacy.

While Google's incognito modes cater to browsing privacy, Gmail cannot generate anonymous aliases or hide user identities. As services like iCloud+ offer anonymous forwarding options, Gmail users are left wanting for similar privacy-enhancing features.

Streamlined Inbox Management: Sorting Options

With email volume reaching unprecedented levels, efficient inbox management is essential. Yet, Gmail falls short in providing users with robust sorting options, such as organizing messages by sender or size.

Data organization is important, as it lets us handle our files systematically. In case we need them or it's time to use them, we have an easier time searching for the essential folders or emails where we store them.

Gmail's lack of sorting features forces users to seek external solutions, detracting from the platform's usability and convenience.

While Google's Gmail has undoubtedly transformed email communication, its failure to evolve with changing user needs and technological advancements leaves it vulnerable to competition.

If Google can invest in its proudly-made gadgets, such as Pixel and Mesh systems, it can also invest in improving the most used email app in existence.

By addressing these deficiencies and embracing innovation, Gmail can reclaim its status as a pioneering email service fit for the digital age.