Google Deploys Full-Screen Compose Window for iPad-Formatted Gmail

Just as the iPad launched in early April, Google debuted an iPad-formatted version of its browser-based Gmail, using its HTML5-based mobile platform to create a two-column format similar to that used for Apple's Mail application on the device. At the time, the company noted that it was continuing to test features and interface designs, and a new change today offers proof of that continued tweaking.


Building on top of the existing two-column Gmail interface on the iPad, Google has announced the launch of a new full-screen compose window that will pop up over the Gmail window, making it easier for users to write email messages on the tablet device.

When you write an email you'll now get a big full screen compose window instead of splitting the screen between your inbox and the compose view. More text is visible at once and there are no more distractions with messages on the side. We've also fixed problems that prevented scrolling on long messages.

Google does note, however, that the new feature is available only in the US English language format for the time being.

The company also reports that it is still experimenting with the iPad form factor, and is thus continuing to solicit feedback and suggestions from users.