It was a long time coming, but Google is finally ready to bring Gmail to the desktop. The search giant has unveiled a new and much anticipated gadget that allows Google Desktop users to check their Gmail accounts without running a full-blown email client or even having to fire up the browser.


The new gadget will allow users to read, star, search and send Gmail messages while in Google Desktop, according to the company, while supporting other useful features like keyboard shortcuts and multiple accounts. The app is currently Windows-only and requires Google Desktop version 5 or higher, leaving Mac and Linux users out in the cold for now.