Google has rolled out two major updates for Android users of Gmail, introducing the “Mark as Read” feature along with a “Material 3 Expressive redesign.”
According to a report by 9to5Google, when Gmail users first began receiving the Material 3 expressive design interface in June, the email list in the inbox was displayed within containers, accompanied by a prominent swipe action animation. At that time, the redesign was available to only a limited number of users.
With this update, the hamburger button and profile switcher have been removed from the browser, while the search view has been improved to make navigation easier for users. However, the new design has not yet been rolled out universally.
Google explained that the change was made to “provide a prominent entry point for opening search,” especially since search remains a key feature of the product. The new search app bar is also being introduced in Google Keep.
Meanwhile, the “Mark as Read” option, which began gradually rolling out at the end of June, is now widely available. In the latest version (2025.08.04.x), the feature appears across all devices.
The option now shows up between the “Delete or Archive” and “Reply” actions, offering users a small but meaningful convenience that further enhances the Gmail experience.
