Regardless of the fact that there are more than a hundred thousand apps available for iPhone and iPod touch, an official Gmail app has never been released for these devices. According to recent reports, Google has submitted their Gmail app to the App Store and its now pending approval from Apple. Would Apple approve an official Gmail app when you can already sync your Gmail account in the native Mail app?
There are quite a number of reasons as to why an official Gmail app for iPhone and iPod touch has not surfaced yet. First and foremost, Apple and Google aren't exactly the best of friends. While Apple has allowed a number of Google apps in the App Store including but not limited to Google Plus, Google Voice, Blogger and Google Goggles, it was always expected that an official Gmail app will not be allowed particularly because of the fact that its possible to sync a Gmail account with the native Mail app on iOS firmware.
Now it looks like Google has finally developed and submitted such an app to the App Store, claims MG Siegler. He claims to have heard from several well connected sources that an official Gmail app has been developed and submitted for review and if Apple allows the app, it will be released very soon. For some people, having a native Gmail app wouldn't justify its existence but these sources claim that Google has intricately developed the official Gmail app and is going to be a treat for all Gmail users who own an iPhone or iPod touch. That's one reason to want a native Gmail app.
Gmail already has a killer web app that can be accessed through mobile Safari on iPhone and iPod touch, and since it offers full functionality, why do we need a native Gmail app then? Well the biggest issue is that the web app can not send push notifications. According to these sources, the official Gmail app is going to be push enabled and will also have Priority Inbox, ability to star message by just one tap, improved email search, threading and contacts. Google Plus integration has also been hinted.
Anyone who has used Google iOS apps would know that the internet search giant's apps for iOS are actually quite full of bugs. We saw that with the official Google Plus app which was so full of bugs that an update had to be released merely after one hour of the app going live on App Store. One can also debate on their appearances however this time around the word is that Google has given special priority to the design and functionality of official Gmail app.
If these sources are anything to go by, and if Apple allows it in the App Store, official Gmail app for iPhone and iPod touch will be released very soon. We'll post immediately when it goes live on the App Store, so watch this space! In the meantime, do let us know in your comments whether or not you'd prefer having an official Gmail app on your device.