Google has announced a significant update to its Gmail search functionality, leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to deliver more relevant results. The new feature, rolling out globally for personal Google account users, considers factors such as recency, most-clicked emails, and frequent contacts to surface emails based on search queries.

Previously, Gmail search results were displayed in chronological order based on keywords. The update marks a significant shift towards prioritizing relevance over chronology, aiming to save users valuable time and improve their overall email experience. According to Google, the new AI-driven approach makes it more likely for users to find the emails they're looking for at the top of their search results.

In addition to the AI-powered search results, Google is introducing a toggle feature that allows users to switch between "Most relevant" and "Most recent" emails on a search results page. This toggle caters to users who prefer seeing search results displayed in chronological order, rather than the new default "Most relevant" option.

The update is currently available on the web and in the Gmail app for Android and iOS, with plans to expand the feature to business users in the future. This move comes as Google continues to enhance its email offering to better compete with Apple's Mail app, which received a slew of Gmail-like features with iOS 18 last year.

Google has been actively building out its email capabilities, recently introducing features such as Gemini-powered event creation directly from emails and "Summary cards" that enable users to take actions in their inbox, like tracking packages or setting reminders. Additionally, Gmail users can now chat with Gemini about their inbox directly within the app on both iOS and Android.

The updated search functionality is a significant step forward for Gmail, as it seeks to provide a more intuitive and efficient email experience for its users. With the AI-driven approach and toggle feature, Google is poised to further differentiate its email service from competitors and solidify its position in the market.

As the email landscape continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how users respond to this update and how Google will continue to innovate and refine its email offering. One thing is certain – with this update, Gmail is taking a significant step towards becoming an even more indispensable tool for users around the world.