When Google unveiled its Material Design in June, the company promised a swift implementation of the new design language on its apps across all platforms. We’re beginning to see the fruition of that promise today with the official announcement of Google’s Gmail and Calendar apps for Android.
First, we have the new Gmail Android app donning a modern style that really looks good. I’ve tried installing the application package yesterday and boy it’s a giant leap from the previous versions. What’s evident though is the floating reply button at the bottom of the app, ready to send that important email to your contacts.
Apart from the UI overhaul, Gmail for Android is now able to support other email providers, which means that you can now access your Yahoo Mail and Outlook from the app.
In addition, Google’s new Calendar application has been revamped to make scheduling easier. I mean, that’s the point of having a calendar, right? Google Calendar users will soon be able turn emails into events on the fly. That means no more copying and pasting.
Adding details such as phone numbers and addresses is also easier with Assists, a new feature that will suggest titles, people, and places as you type.
“For example, if you often go running with Peter in Central Park, Calendar can quickly suggest that entire event when you type ‘r-u-n,'” said Ian Leader, the Product Manager for Google Calendar.
Calendar users are also presented with a better-looking Schedule View, which now includes photos and maps. The new Google Calendar is now available on all Android 5.0 Lollipop devices. Meanwhile, the new Gmail app will be released in the next few days, Google said.
Sources: Google (1), Google (2)
