Gmail on Android tablets and foldables now has an adjustable layout

Engadget - Apr 25th, 2025

Android users with tablets or foldable devices can now enjoy a more customizable Gmail experience with the latest update, version 2025.04.13.x. This update introduces a new feature that allows users to adjust the divider between the message list and conversation views within the Gmail app, providing greater flexibility in how emails are displayed. By dragging the divider, users can resize the two panes dynamically, or move it to the screen's edge to focus on just one view. The same functionality is also available in the Google Chat app for large-screen Android devices, benefiting users with personal Google or Google Workspace accounts.

The introduction of this adjustable divider reflects Google's ongoing commitment to enhancing user experience on large-screen Android devices. As tablets and foldables become more prevalent, the ability to tailor app interfaces to individual preferences is increasingly important. This update not only improves usability for those managing high volumes of emails but also aligns with broader trends toward more versatile and adaptable technology in mobile devices. The change signifies a step forward in optimizing productivity tools for varied screen sizes, potentially influencing future developments in app design for Android devices.

Android Gmail Tablets App Update Google Chat Foldable Devices User Interface

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RATING

7.6

Fair Story

Consider it well-founded

The article provides a clear and accurate report on a new Gmail feature for Android tablets and foldables. Its strengths lie in factual accuracy and clarity, effectively communicating the update's details. While the story could benefit from more diverse sources and greater transparency, it remains a reliable piece for readers interested in tech updates. The article's impact and engagement are limited by its technical focus, but it serves its purpose well for the target audience. Overall, the story is a well-structured and informative piece that meets the needs of its intended readership.

Accuracy

The factual accuracy of the story is high, as the claims about the Gmail update for Android tablets and foldables are well-supported by external sources. The story accurately reports that users can adjust the divider between Gmail's message list and conversation views, a feature confirmed by 9to5Google and other tech news outlets. The specific version number 2025.04.13.x is also corroborated by these sources. Additionally, the claim that the adjustable divider is available in the Google Chat app is verified. The only minor area for verification is the extent of availability across all types of Google accounts, but the story's claim aligns with general reporting trends.

Balance

The article maintains a neutral tone and focuses on the technical update without delving into potential criticisms or broader implications. While it could benefit from discussing user reactions or potential drawbacks of the update, its primary aim is to inform about a specific feature. The lack of opposing viewpoints or alternative perspectives is a minor issue, but given the topic's nature, the balance is generally adequate.

Clarity

The article is clear and concise, effectively communicating the new feature's functionality and availability. The language is straightforward, and the structure logically presents the information. However, it could include more context for less tech-savvy readers, such as explaining why such a feature might be significant or beneficial.

Source quality

The story references 9to5Google, a reputable source for technology news, which adds credibility to the claims. However, it would benefit from citing additional sources or direct statements from Google to strengthen its reliability further. The reliance on a single primary source slightly limits the breadth of the information but does not significantly undermine the story's credibility.

Transparency

The article lacks explicit transparency regarding the methodology of how the feature was discovered or any potential conflicts of interest. While it mentions 9to5Google as the source of the information, it does not provide details on how the update was tested or verified. Greater transparency about the process and any affiliations with Google could enhance the reader's understanding.