A new UI update may have been rolled out by Gmail for Android applicable to foldable devices. This includes a new navigation trail on the Gmail app for foldables. The new update seeks to provide better large-screen support for Gmail on phones or tablets with a foldable form factor. The new UI was first announced back in May but it seems to have just started rolling out.
A new sidebar in the Gmail app places the “compose” button along the side of the UI rather than in a floating action button. The bottom bar has been moved to the side, while shortcuts for inbox, chat, and meet are also visible there. The new update, it has to be noted, seems to be available only for foldable. The Gmail UI update is now visible in the Google Pixel Fold although it is still lacking in other devices at this time. The UI update is lacking on the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4, although the Z Fold 4 has a higher aspect ratio and does not trigger the tablet interface until it is rotated.
The new Gmail navigation rail is common to other tablet designs already put in place by Google. Most Google apps like Play Store, Photos, and Google Home have been pushed to the side to optimize the wider form factor of tablets. The desktop version of the Gmail app, it is noted, uses a sidebar interface. It is expected that the new Gmail updates for Android foldables will surface on the Play Store for all devices soon.
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