Get Gmail 5.0 for Android right now
Anticipating the Material makeover for one of Google's most beloved apps? The wait is over, and here's how to get a copy for your Android device.
Editors' note on November 4: The latest version of the Gmail app is now available on Google Play.
The newest version of the Gmail app features auto-updating email threads, the ability to add accounts from other email providers and Exchange support. This means that you'll no longer need to use two separate apps to access your email.
Want to try it out? Luckily, Android Police has just acquired the Android package (APK) of Gmail 5.0, and has shared it on its APK Mirror website. This means you can get a copy of it now and don't have to wait for the update through Google Play.
The APK is signed by Google, which guarantees its authenticity.
Here's how to get started:
Setup
Grab a copy of Gmail 5.0 from APKMirror. Once the download finishes, tap the notification and then press the Install button. This APK is signed and authentic, meaning that it will upgrade the version of Gmail you currently have installed.
After the app introduction, you'll be prompted to sign in. You can use your current Gmail if you want to get into the app right away or you can add accounts from other providers. The new version of Gmail supports accounts from Yahoo, Outlook, AOL Mail and others that use IMAP/POP. However, these accounts will not use push notifications, and you'll be asked to set a sync interval.
If you add multiple accounts, you can switch between them by opening the left-hand slide-out menu and swiping across your profile banner. You can also tap the small arrow and choose an account from the list.
Exchange support
If you want to add Exchange support to your Gmail client, you'll need to download an additional APK.
If you installed Gmail 5.0 first, you may need to force stop your Gmail app in order for it to recognize the Exchange capabilities. This can be done by going to Settings > Applications > Gmail > Force stop.
After this, you'll be able to add your Exchange accounts just like the others above.
This new version is very similar to the last, save for the Material design and under-the-hood account support. What do you think of it? Share your thoughts in the comments.
Update: The link to the Gmail 5.0 APK has been updated to point to a newer version.