Google introduces AI-powered ‘smart search’ feature in Gmail: Here’s how it works

Google

Google's Gmail has long maintained its position as one of the most intuitive email clients worldwide, with more than 32% market share. Now, the tech giant is rolling out a new AI-powered search upgrade for Gmail, which is aimed at making it easier for users to find the emails they need more quickly and improve its usability. In a recent blog post, Google announced the rollout of a new AI-powered ‘smart search’ feature, which is designed to find more relevant results quickly.

According to Google, instead of simply listing the email messages that meet your search criteria in reverse chronological order, the ‘smart search’ feature factors in recency, most-clicked emails, frequent contacts, and other elements to find out the emails that users are looking for. This can help surface relevant emails at the top of the search results, regardless of when a user has received said email.

Once rolled out, users will see a new ‘Most relevant’ dropdown underneath the Gmail search bar and carousel of filters or, in the future, browse by ‘Most recent.’ The ‘Most relevant’ search option is currently rolling out for users with personal Google accounts and is available on both the web and the official Gmail app for Android and iOS. It will be also available for business users in the future and a full rollout should be completed by next month.

As the landscape of email management continues to evolve, these Gmail enhancements come in response to competitive pressures, particularly with Apple Mail introducing similar AI features with the latest iOS 18 update. However, with such useful updates, Google is aiming to ensure that everyone, from casual users to professionals, can better manage their workflows and enhance their productivity.