Google announced at its May I/O developer conference that it would add a new AI-powered feature to Gmail called Gmail Live, which enables voice-based searching within a user’s mailbox. That feature has now entered beta testing.
According to 9to5Google, Gmail Live will appear this summer for some Android and iPhone users in the Gmail app. The report adds that Google AI Pro and Google AI Ultra subscribers will gain access at a later stage.
Interface and user flow
For accounts included in the test, a Live icon appears in the Gmail search bar. Tapping that icon reveals a Gemini button; tapping the Gemini button launches Gmail Live in full-screen mode and displays a notice that the feature is currently in beta. The interface also includes a close button to exit Live and return to the inbox.
Behind the feature is the Gemini AI: users can ask it, by voice, to locate specific emails — for example messages containing travel information, appointment details, or order confirmations.
Expansion within Google services
Google already offers a related capability called Gemini Live, which allows chatbot users to speak live queries and commands. The company is working to extend similar voice-interaction features into more of its products, with Document and Drive versions planned.
Availability
Google has not announced a timeline for broad rollout, so it is unclear when Gmail Live will be available to all users. In the meantime, typed search remains the standard method for finding messages.
