Google is testing a new interface for its Gmail client with only a handful of selected individuals, so login to your webmail account to see if you’re one of the lucky few. You will realize that your account has been upgraded when a "Newer version" or "Older version" link appears in the top right corner.
So what’s new?
- More JavaScript used throughout the interface
- Filter similar messages option under "More Actions"
- Mute option under "More Actions"
- Completely revamped 3-pane (groups, names, person details) interface for the contacts list
The changes appear to be useful, but it seems this version is considerably slower than the older one. The Google Rumor Mill says the changes were to make Gmail faster, but that’s not true for me. Even scrolling the page is sluggish. I hope Google fixes this before it becomes official, but for now, I’ll stick with the old version.