"Google is shutting down the Gemini side panel in Gmail for AI Pro and AI Ultra users, replacing it with built-in AI features that work directly inside emails."
Google is making a big change to how artificial intelligence works inside Gmail. The company has officially removed the Gemini side panel for AI Pro and AI Ultra subscribers in the United States and is moving those AI features directly into Gmail itself.
This update is part of Google’s broader rollout of Gemini 3 and reflects a shift toward more seamless and less distracting AI experiences. Instead of opening a separate chatbot panel, users now see AI help exactly where they need it, inside emails.
What was the Gemini side panel in Gmail?
The Gemini side panel was a chatbot-style interface that appeared on the right side of Gmail. It was available to users paying for Google AI Pro or AI Ultra subscriptions.
- Summarize long email threads
- Draft replies using AI
- Search past emails quickly
- Access Google Drive files
- Check Calendar events without leaving Gmail
Users could open the panel by clicking a spark icon next to their profile photo. While powerful, the feature required users to shift attention away from the email they were working on.
Why did Google remove the Gemini side panel?
According to Google, the goal is simplicity. The company wants AI to feel like a natural part of Gmail, not a separate tool.
We’re working to make it easier to use AI directly in Gmail.
By removing the side panel, Google is reducing clutter and encouraging users to interact with AI in context. Instead of asking a chatbot to help, Gmail now proactively offers help at the right moment.
What replaces the Gemini side panel?
The side panel’s features are not gone. They have been redesigned as in-line AI experiences that appear directly within Gmail’s interface.
| Feature | What it does |
|---|---|
| AI Overviews | Automatically summarizes long email threads |
| Enhanced Proofread | Improves grammar, tone, and clarity |
| Suggested Replies | Generates smarter replies based on conversation context |
These features now appear inside the email view, making them faster and easier to use during everyday communication.
What about Help Me Write?
The popular Help Me Write feature remains available and unchanged. Interestingly, Google has expanded access so that even free Gmail users can now use it. This tool allows users to generate full email drafts using simple prompts.
Who is affected by this change?
The removal of the Gemini side panel applies only to personal Gmail accounts in the United States that subscribe to Google AI Pro or AI Ultra.
- AI Pro users paying $19.99 per month
- AI Ultra users paying $249.99 per month
Google Workspace users are not affected. Enterprise and business customers continue to see Gemini features as part of their existing Workspace tools.
Is Gemini completely gone from Gmail?
No. Gemini is still very much part of Gmail. It is simply less visible as a separate product.
On mobile, especially Android, the Gemini side panel is still available for now. Google appears to be testing different approaches before making a final decision across all platforms.
What is AI Inbox and why does it matter?
Google is also testing a new AI Inbox feature with select users. This experimental feature reorganizes emails into task lists, summaries, and topics.
Instead of scrolling endlessly through messages, users may soon see a smarter inbox that highlights what needs action first. This signals a bigger shift in how Gmail could work in the future.
What does this mean for Gmail users?
This change shows Google’s evolving AI strategy. Rather than promoting AI as a chatbot, the company is embedding intelligence directly into everyday workflows.
For users, this means:
- Less switching between tools
- Faster access to AI help
- A cleaner Gmail interface
While some power users may miss the dedicated Gemini panel, most people are likely to benefit from AI that works quietly in the background.
FAQs
Is Google removing Gemini from Gmail completely?
No. Google is removing the side panel but keeping Gemini features built directly into Gmail.
Do free Gmail users get AI features now?
Yes. Features like Help Me Write are now available to all Gmail users, not just paid subscribers.
Does this affect Google Workspace accounts?
No. Workspace users are not impacted by this change.
