Turn Chat on or off in Gmail

  1. On your computer, open Gmail.
  2. At the top right, click Settings "" and then View all settings.
  3. At the top, click Chat and Meet.
  4. Next to “Chat,” to turn Chat on or off in Gmail, select Google Chat or Off.
  5. Click Save Changes.

Change the Chat panel’s position in Gmail

You can move the Chat panel to the right or left side of your Gmail inbox.

  1. On your computer, open Gmail.
  2. At the top right, click Settings ""and then See all settings.
  3. At the top, click Chat and Meet.
  4. Next to “Chat position,” select Left side of the inbox or Right side of the inbox.
  5. Click Save Changes.

How is Chat in Gmail different from Chat?

You get the same features in Chat and Chat in Gmail, but the integrated Gmail experience provides a central location to communicate with friends, family, or coworkers between emails.

  • Chat: Use when you prefer a dedicated chat experience and don't mind switching between different apps.
  • Gmail: Use when you like to multi-task and prefer to view all of your communications in one place.