How to use Gemini inside Gmail to summarize and reply to threads

If you have a Google Workspace plan with Gemini, the AI is built right into Gmail, no automation needed. The Gemini side panel can read the thread you are looking at, summarize it, draft a reply in your voice, and even find old emails by description. This guide shows how to switch it on and use it well.

• A Google Workspace account with Gemini included (Business or Enterprise, or the Gemini add-on)
• Gmail open in a desktop browser
• About 6 minutes

Step 1: Open the Gemini side panel

In Gmail, look for the Gemini star icon in the top right of the window. Click it to open the side panel. If you do not see it, an admin may need to enable Gemini for your organization, or your plan may not include it yet.

Step 2: Summarize a long thread

Open a long thread and in the side panel click Summarize this email, or type your own prompt. Gemini reads every message in the thread and gives you the decisions, open questions, and who owes what. This is the fastest way to catch up after time away.

Step 3: Draft a reply in your tone

Hit Reply on the message, then in the compose box use the Help me write option (the pencil with a star). Type the gist, for example agree to the timeline but push the demo to Friday, and Gemini expands it into a polished reply you can refine or shorten.

Step 4: Find emails by describing them

You do not have to remember keywords. In the side panel ask find the contract Maria sent me last month with the signing deadline. Gemini searches your mailbox semantically and links straight to the message and any attachment.

Result: an 18-message thread you dreaded becomes a three-bullet summary, your reply is drafted from one line of intent, and the buried contract is found by description, all without leaving Gmail.