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We’re evolving the Rooms experience in Google Chat into Spaces. Learn more.

Use Google Chat in Gmail

To manage your communication, stay connected, and collaborate in one place, add Google Chat to your Gmail inbox. If you use a work or school account, your organization determines if this option is available.
Important: Your child can use Chat in the Gmail app, or in the web version of Gmail, even if the Chat app is blocked. Learn how to manage your child's Google Account.

Turn Chat on or off in Gmail

An animation showing how to turn Chat on or off in Gmail on desktop

  1. On your computer, open Gmail.
  2. At the top right, click Settings  and then See all settings.
  3. At the top, click Chat and Meet.
  4. Next to “Chat,” to turn Chat on or off in Gmail, select Google Chat or Off.
  5. Click Save Changes.

Change the Chat panel’s position in Gmail

You can move the Chat panel to the right or left side of your Gmail inbox.

  1. On your computer, open Gmail.
  2. At the top right, click Settings and then See all settings.
  3. At the top, click Chat and Meet.
  4. Next to “Chat position,” select Left side of the inbox or Right side of the inbox.
  5. Click Save Changes.

How is Chat in Gmail different from Chat?

You get the same features in Chat and Chat in Gmail, but the integrated Gmail experience provides a central location to communicate with friends, family, or coworkers between emails.

  • Chat: Use when you prefer a dedicated chat experience and don't mind switching between different apps.
  • Gmail: Use when you like to multi-task and prefer to view all of your communications in one place. Learn more about the new integrated Gmail layout.
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