New Android Gmail app could open door to mobile ads

Android users getting to grips with the recent Gmail 4.6 update may soon be greeted by a more unwelcome addition, with the new potential to be filled with mobile adverts.
The eagle-eyed code crackers at Android Police noted that Gmail now has the potential to turn on mobile advertising at the flick of the switch – a functionality not possible in previous versions of the app.
Although adverts are turned off for now, the news will come as a concern to upwards of a billion Android users.
Based on the contents of the APK, it has been suggested that Google could implement advertising with a degree of restraint should they decide to turn it on, but it’s a worrying step in the direction of more obviously commercial e-mail providers.
Google responded to the speculation in a brief, guarded statement to Tech Radar, commenting: “We’re always experimenting with new features, but have nothing new to share at this time.”
More positive additions to Gmail 4.6 include a warning about any unsent messages, as well as some minor design tweaks to improve the user experience.
Are you concerned by the prospect of an ad-filled Gmail? Let us know what you think in the comments below.