Google releases GMail Mobile 2.0

Google announced the release of the 2.0 version of Gmail mobile Java application yesterday. I’ve used the 1.0 application for about as long as I’ve owned my phone. It worked well for most of that time, except for a significant — though since fixed — glitch with secure connections.

I have only used the new interface for a grand total of ten minutes, but I can safely say that the 2.0 version of Gmail’s mobile app is a worthy upgrade. I’m using GMail mobile on a Nokia N80, running the S60 platform, 3rd edition.

What’s new?

The hot new feature is, undoubtedly, support for multiple accounts. The first version of Gmail Mobile only supported one account at a time (though, technically, you could have just logged in using a different account). Version 2.0 includes a menu option for adding additional accounts.

I’m also digging the ‘Mobile Drafts’ feature. Several times I have started an e-mail message in the car or on the train, only to have to stop mid-message because the light changed, or I reached my stop. With mobile drafts, I can return to the message later. A HUGE improvement over version 1.0.

Also new: The ‘Show data use per session’ feature. For those mobile users (outside of the U.S., mostly) who have metered, not unlimited, data plans, this feature is a little bit of a Godsend.

Another improvement: Speed. This version of the Gmail Mobile application feels faster than the previous one, even when using a secure connection.

Gmail mobile 2.0 is available as an application for Android, Symbian, Windows Mobile, Blackberry and iPhone.

Possibly related: My essential mobile applications