Google has announced that it will discontinue Gmail’s Basic HTML view in January 2024, requiring users to have modern browsers for continued service. After this change, users will be automatically redirected to the more feature-rich Standard view, offering the latest usability and security features.
Furthermore, the Basic HTML view was originally designed for users with limited internet access, older hardware, or legacy web browsers that lacked modern HTML support. However, some users, particularly those with visual impairments, relied on this view for its reliability with text-to-speech tools.
Despite its usefulness to certain users, Google has chosen to retire the HTML view without providing specific reasons for the decision. Until early January 2024, organizations can continue using the Basic HTML view. Following its discontinuation, users will be directed to the Standard Gmail view, which offers enhanced security and features.
Users with older web browsers may need to update them to use the Standard view, and mobile users have the option to download the official Gmail app. To prepare for this transition, users who rely on the Basic HTML view may need to switch to desktop email clients like Mozilla Thunderbird or Microsoft Outlook, especially if they require accessibility features.
