Google is rolling out a new Gmail app feature in time for the holiday season that makes it easier for users to track their packages right from their inbox.
In an effort to help users stay on top of order confirmation and shipping emails during the holiday season, Gmail will display a simplified view of a user’s package tracking and delivery information.
For orders with tracking numbers, Gmail will prominently display your current delivery status in the list view of your inbox and in a summary card at the top of individual emails. Package tracking will be available on most major US carriers and will provide important details at a glance, such as estimated arrival date and status, such as “Label Created”, “Arrived Tomorrow” or “Delivered today”.
Users can choose to receive package tracking updates in their inbox using Gmail settings. Gmail will then automatically look up order statuses using tracking numbers and display them in the user’s inbox. It will also proactively show overdue labels and bring emails to the top of the inbox. Google says the new package tracking features will roll out “in the coming weeks.”
Google’s system is vaguely reminiscent of the package tracking that Apple recently introduced in iOS 16, but distinct in that Apple’s tracking only works for support business orders that are purchased with Apple Pay. Additionally, Apple’s tracker is integrated into the Wallet app, rather than its Mail app.