How to Remove the Sidebar in New Gmail View

Gmail recently underwent a makeover, sporting a sleek design and rounded corners. While the changes are generally positive, some users find the new sidebar on the left to be unnecessary and distracting. If you're one of them, don't worry, you can easily disable the sidebar in Gmail's new layout. Here's how:

Issues with the New Gmail Sidebar

The new Gmail sidebar houses icons for Google Meet, Chat, and Spaces, but it occupies more space than necessary. In the previous Gmail design, Meet and Chat were integrated into the main sidebar. However, with the new layout, they have their own separate sidebar. This can be problematic for users who utilize Gmail in dual panel mode where horizontal space is valuable.

Furthermore, in the minimized sidebar view, all email labels and options are hidden, only displaying Meet, Chat, and Spaces. Accessing Gmail options then becomes a two-step process, requiring you to hover over the mail option in the sidebar before accessing other features like Drafts, Important, Snoozed, Trash, Labels, and more.

Fortunately, there are two ways to disable the Gmail sidebar. You can either revert to the old Gmail view, restoring everything to how it was before, or you can disable the sidebar while still enjoying the new redesign.

How to Disable the New Gmail View

Disabling the new Gmail view is a breeze. Here's what you need to do:

  1. Open Gmail in your preferred browser and click on the cog icon at the top right corner to access Settings.
  2. In the sidebar that appears, look for the “Go back to the original Gmail view” option. Click on it to disable the new Gmail sidebar and revert to the old view.

However, keep in mind that this option might be removed in the future if Google deems the transition to the new layout successful. In such a case, follow these steps:

  1. Click on the “See all Settings” button at the top.
  2. Under the General tab in the main menu, select the “Original View” option.
  3. Scroll down and click on the “Save Changes” button to reload Gmail in the old layout.

How to Disable the Sidebar in New Gmail View

To remove the new Gmail sidebar, you can disable the Meet and Chat options in Gmail settings. Here's how:

  1. Open Gmail in your browser and click on the cog icon at the top right corner.
  2. In the sidebar, click on the “See all settings” button.
  3. Navigate to the “Chat and Meet” tab in Settings.
  4. Choose “Off” next to Chat and select “Hide the Meet section in the main menu” for the Meet option.
  5. Finally, click on the “Save Changes” button.

Once you've completed these steps, Gmail will reload, and you won't see the sidebar with additional app shortcuts like Meet and Chat.

Meet and Chat on Gmail

By reverting to the old view, you can still access Meet and Chat options in Gmail's native sidebar. This allows you to take advantage of these services without the sidebar taking up valuable space. On the other hand, if you choose to disable Chat and Meet completely, they won't be available on Gmail anymore. Consider your preferences and select the method that suits your needs.

Removing the sidebar in the new Gmail view is a simple process that will enhance your Gmail experience. Say goodbye to unnecessary distractions and enjoy a clutter-free inbox.