Google optimizes Gmail summaries and adds a 'Coming Soon' tab.

Google is expanding the summary cards in Gmail, which are contextually-driven snippets powered by artificial intelligence used for items like incoming packages. Starting today, these cards will include information about purchases, events, bills, and travel. Additionally, a new section called "Coming Soon" will be introduced at the top of the inbox to show time-sensitive cards that are on the way. According to the company, these changes are a response to the evolution of email usage habits.

The "Coming Soon" section will provide "timely" summary cards as soon as you open Gmail. For example, upon entering your inbox, you might find a card informing you that an order made last week is scheduled to be delivered today. Google states that all summary cards are dynamic and update in real-time.

The summary cards will include action buttons where appropriate, making interaction easier without the need to search for hidden links. The shopping summary cards will allow you to track packages, view order details, and keep tabs on online purchases. Meanwhile, event cards will display your upcoming commitments, the option to invite friends, or directions to the event location. Bill cards will enable you to view or settle accounts, as well as set reminders to pay them through Google Tasks. Finally, travel cards will facilitate managing reservations, checking in for flights, and consulting details such as hotel check-in and check-out times.

The rollout schedule for these new features is somewhat complex. The shopping summary cards for individual emails will begin to be implemented "gradually" starting today, although some users have already reported seeing them earlier this week on Android and iOS. The cards for other categories for individual emails and the "Coming Soon" section will be introduced "in the coming months." Lastly, the four categories of cards that will appear in individual emails, in Gmail search, and in the "Coming Soon" section will be available "in the future." Therefore, users will need to wait a little to experience the full functionality of Google's summary cards.