Google Testing New Gmail Layout: Bringing Back the Account Switcher!

Gmail for Android Might Move Gemini to Restore the Account Switcher

Google is testing a change in Gmail for Android that could restore the account switcher to its original position, reversing a previous design decision introduced with the Gemini side panel (officially known as 'Gmail Q&A').

• Current Design: With the introduction of Gemini, the Google Account switcher moved to the left alongside the search bar, while the side panel took over the space typically used for account switching.
• Proposed Change: For some Workspace accounts, the profile avatar is now back in the top-right corner, and Gemini has been moved to the left. This adjustment maintains a consistent user experience across Google's apps and preserves muscle memory for users who frequently switch accounts.
• Design Impact: The pill-shaped bar in the new design is slightly smaller, but the touch target remains large enough for easy use.

Additionally, Google is experimenting with other updates to Gmail for Android (and iOS), including:

• Attachment Menu: A revised menu when composing emails now includes options for Photos, Camera, Files, and Drive. The option to take a new picture directly from the attachment menu is a new feature.
• Other Enhancements: Google has also been working on features like Gemini-powered 'Add to Calendar' that auto-detects event details, replacing SMS with QR codes for account creation, and rolling out a redesigned summary card for bills.