Tuesday, 29 April 2025
30.1 C
Singapore
32.8 C
Thailand
25.2 C
Indonesia
28.8 C
Philippines

Google to phase out basic HTML version of Gmail by next year

Google plans to phase out the basic HTML version of Gmail by January 2024, directing users to its feature-rich 'Standard View.'

Google has revealed that it will discontinue the basic HTML version of Gmail by January 2024. This change was announced via the company’s support page, stating that Gmail will automatically switch to ‘Standard View’. The exact date of this announcement remains unspecified. The basic HTML version lacks features like Chat, spell checker, and keyboard shortcuts, among others.

In a conversation with The Register, a Google spokesperson explained, “The Gmail Basic HTML views are previous versions of Gmail that were replaced by their modern successors 10+ years ago and do not include full Gmail feature functionality.” The Register’s report also showed that the HTML version took approximately 1200 milliseconds to load, compared to the standard view’s 700 milliseconds. However, web elements continued to load for almost a minute in the latter.

Impact on users and Google’s past decisions

Initially designed for older browsers and slow internet connections, the basic HTML version of Gmail is instrumental in areas with poor connectivity. The version also supports visually impaired users as it’s easier for screen readers to understand.

Google has a history of retiring products; this year alone, they have discontinued six products, including Google OnHub and Stadia. 

Google still continues to support older services, such as offering a G Suite legacy edition for users who don’t want to transition to Google Workspace.

Hot this week

Bethesda releases The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered – and you can play it now

Bethesda released Oblivion Remastered, which features full visual upgrades and quality-of-life improvements and is now available across major platforms.

SquareX secures US$20 million to transform browser security

SquareX raises US$20 million to strengthen browser security, offering enterprises an easy way to protect users without disrupting their workflows.

Microsoft used AI to make an advert — and nobody noticed

Microsoft used AI to create a Surface ad, which no one has noticed for months. This shows how advanced generative tools have become.

Neuralink’s journey towards merging minds with machines

Neuralink’s journey to merge human minds with machines marks a major milestone, offering transformative potential for healthcare, technology, and beyond.

Zoho partners with Cradle to boost Malaysia’s startup ecosystem

Zoho and Cradle are partnering to provide RM44 million in software credits to 4,400 startups, supporting Malaysia's tech innovation drive.

ASUS teams up with Bethesda to launch ROG Astral GeForce RTX 5080 DOOM Edition

ASUS celebrates 30 years of graphics cards with a limited ROG RTX 5080 DOOM Edition, launched in partnership with Bethesda and id Software.

Commvault expands cyber recovery services through CrowdStrike partnership

Commvault and CrowdStrike expand partnership to offer integrated cyber recovery and incident response services for stronger cyber resilience.

ASUS and JustCo introduce experience zones for business travellers and professionals in Singapore

ASUS and JustCo open new tech-enabled workspace zones in Singapore, featuring premium monitors and chairs for modern professionals.

Microsoft report reveals Singapore’s workforce is embracing AI to overcome productivity limits

Microsoft's latest report finds Singapore businesses turning to AI agents to scale workforce capacity and drive organisational change.

Related Articles

Popular Categories