New refinement capabilities allow custom editing with Help me write

New refinement capabilities allow custom editing with Help me write in Gmail

Users can now edit and revise their email drafts in Gmail via the prompt bar, using custom refine instructions in Help me write. Previously the refines were limited to preset options like Polish, Formalize, and Shorten. Now if your first draft isn’t quite perfect, you can provide a precise follow-up prompt in your own words to further refine it, and even undo or redo any edits you make.

Whether you need to add a missing detail to the second line or include a deadline for your request, simply type the instruction and Gmail will instantly update the draft for you.

New refinement

Getting started

Admins: This feature is available by default if both Gemini for Workspace in Gmail is enabled and Workspace Intelligence access to Gmail is enabled.
End users: This feature is available by default. Visit the Help Center article to learn more about drafting emails with Gemini in Gmail.

Rollout pace

Rapid Release and Scheduled Release domains: Rolling out now, with expected completion by July 20, 2026

Availability

Business: Business Starter, Standard, and Plus
Enterprise: Enterprise Starter, Standard, and Plus
Consumer: Google AI Plus, Pro, and Ultra
Other Editions: Frontline Plus
Education Add-ons: Google AI Pro for Education
Other Add-ons: AI Expanded Access

Resources

Gmail Help: Draft emails with Gemini in Gmail

Google’s “Help me write” in Gmail now allows for custom editing instructions. Instead of relying solely on preset options like Polish, Formalize, or Shorten, you can now enter specific follow-up prompts to instantly update your draft. [1, 2]

This enhancement drastically improves how you interact with Gemini in your inbox:

Custom Instructions: Type exact directions in your own words (e.g., “add a deadline for next Monday” or “include more details about the meeting location”) and Gemini will update the draft on the fly.
Undo and Redo: New controls let you easily toggle back and forth between different AI-generated changes without needing to start the draft over.
Seamless Availability: The feature is on by default if you have Gemini for Workspace enabled. [1]

You can read the full overview of this release on the Google Workspace Updates Blog or get detailed instructions on the Google Help Center. [2]

If you want, I can help you:Brainstorm effective custom prompts to use in your next email draft.Review your current email topic and generate an initial draft to refine.Let me know what you are currently working on!