Google is Watching You.
Google has rolled out a new update for Gmail the week of May 15th, available on both Android and iOS. The “Smart Reply” feature is now available in Gmail where it was only previously available in the Google Inbox app. The Smart Reply feature pre-populates 3 answers based on the content of the email. These canned responses are not limited to what is supplied, you are able to add to the suggested reply or modify it as you see fit.
In addition to providing these suggested answers, it utilizes machine learning to “learn” your style of writing. For example, If you’re keen on using exclamation points in conversation, Gmail notices this trend and you can expect to see more suggestions in the smart reply feature with exclamation points in the suggested replies.
Friend or Foe?
Debatably creepy, some people may love the simplicity and ease of response. And for some, it’s socially responsible to reply like a robot over email. It makes replying to routine emails more efficient and allows for the user to spend more time where it needs to be spent.
Conversely, having the Google servers analyze your information and suggest responses based on what is being communicated conjures the feeling of “Google is watching me” or “Big Brother is keeping tabs on all of us”. The truth is that your email is being read regardless. Gmail is a free service because Google reads emails and is able to provide targeted ads based on the content of the emails we send every day.
Key Points
Available for Android and iOS.
Google promises that no humans see the content of your messages. Personalization data never leaves your phone.
You can disable the function if you don’t want it – get the instructions here.
Smart reply learns your writing style over time, the more you use it the more it adapts to how you communicate
Reference material:
How To Turn Off Gmail’s New ‘Smart Reply’ Feature
Gmail for iOS adds Inbox-style ‘Smart Reply’ feature with quick reply suggestions
Smart Reply is coming to Gmail for Android and iOS
Never Type An Email Response Again With Smart Reply For Gmail On iOS And Android
