Google is removing the Gemini side panel in Gmail for AI Pro and Ultra subscribers in the US as new in-line AI tools roll out

CALIFORNIA: Google has begun rolling out a major update to Gmail’s AI integration, phasing out the Gemini side panel for AI Pro and Ultra subscribers in the US in favour of in-line AI features that are more directly embedded into the email experience. This change, which began yesterday, marks a shift in how Google users interact with artificial intelligence in Gmail.

Previously, the Gemini panel was accessible via the spark icon near a user’s profile picture. It served as a conversational chatbot and allowed users to summarise emails, suggest replies, draft messages, retrieve content from Google Drive or Calendar, and more. Now, much of this functionality has been restructured into Gmail’s core user interface.

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The updated experience includes Help Me Write, a feature that remains unchanged, and Proofread, which now offers enhanced grammar, spelling and tone correction. AI Overviews now provide deeper context by summarising longer email threads directly in-line. Suggested Replies have also received upgrades to better understand thread history and provide more relevant responses.

Google said the move is designed to make Gmail’s AI easier to use, with tools appearing where users naturally expect them. “Subscribers in the US may no longer see Ask Gemini in Gmail or be able to open the Gemini in Gmail side panel,” the company confirmed. The change currently affects web users, with the Gemini panel still present on mobile (Android) for now.

Also Read: Google unveils ‘Deep Think’ AI for Gemini Ultra subscribers

There are no changes for Google Workspace plans, where the Gemini side panel remains available. This update currently applies only to personal Gmail accounts enrolled in Google’s AI Pro and Ultra tiers in the United States.

These adjustments reflect Google’s broader strategy of embedding AI directly into daily workflows across its apps, moving away from standalone sidebars and conversational bots towards seamless, task-driven AI interactions.

More updates are expected in the coming months as Google refines the user experience based on feedback.