You can now talk to your Gmail inbox, as seen at Google IO 2026

Google unveiled Gmail Live, a conversational AI feature for Gmail, at its IO 2026 developer conference. The tool, powered by Gemini, lets users ask natural-language questions about emails—such as flight details, appointment times, or event information—without relying on traditional keyword searches. Unlike previous attempts like Google Photos’ AI search, which faced backlash, Gmail Live will remain optional alongside standard search functions. During a demo, Devanshi Bhandari, product lead for Gmail, showed how the AI could answer follow-up questions, distinguish between similar terms like ‘field trip’ and ‘trip,’ and extract specific details like hotel room numbers. Users can also interact via voice commands, similar to standalone AI chatbots. The feature will initially launch later this summer for Google AI Ultra subscribers, with plans to expand voice capabilities to Google Keep. Gmail is also introducing other AI-driven updates, including ready-to-send drafts, instant file access, and task management tools. The AI Inbox experience, launched earlier this year, will now extend to Google AI Pro and Plus subscribers, offering a consolidated overview of pending tasks and emails. Google’s move follows criticism over its AI-powered Photos search, which was later made optional after user complaints. The company aims to demonstrate practical AI applications, like simplifying email navigation, amid growing skepticism about AI’s real-world utility. The rollout highlights Google’s cautious approach, ensuring new features complement existing tools rather than replacing them entirely.