Inbox by Gmail Co-Creator Releases Chrome Extension to Give Your Gmail Inbox a Cleaner Look

Inbox by Gmail was shut down earlier this week, and since then everyone has been on the lookout for an alternative. While Google is busy bringing some of the Inbox by Gmail features to the regular Gmail app, there are a few Chrome browser Web extensions that can bring a similar, cleaner interface to your Gmail inbox. Now, a new Chrome extension has been released by the co-creator of Inbox by Gmail that brings a similar experience to Gmail on the Web. Earlier, a Chrome extension called Inbox Theme for Gmail was also released which claims to offer similar features to Inbox by Gmail.

The Chrome extension, titled Simplify Gmail, brings a new design to your Gmail inbox. It doesn't help much with functionality, but if you're simply looking for a cleaner interface, the extension can really help.

Simplify Gmail is available on the Chrome Web Store as a free download. Once installed, the Chrome extension adds a new design and reduces the clutter which is present on the existing Gmail design. The redesign moves the sidebar behind a collapsible menu and takes the compose button to the right-hand side of the display.

The Chrome extension has been developed by the co-creator of Inbox by Gmail, Michael Leggett, who had previously spent four years as the lead designer for Gmail. On the Chrome Web Store listing page, Leggett claims he's been writing Chrome extensions for years for his personal use.

He goes on to write, "With the unfortunate demise of Google Inbox, I wanted to bring the simplified email experience to Gmail." Leggett also clarifies that his Chrome extension is safe to use as there are no trackers and no data is sent or shared with a third party. He also promises there will be no ads on the extension.

How to install and use Simplify Gmail

1. Head to the Chrome Web Store listing for Simplify Gmail.
2. Click on the Add to Chrome button.
3. You'll be prompted to confirm if you want to add the extension to your browser, click on Add extension.
4. Chrome will now download and install Simplify Gmail on your browser.
5. Now when you open Gmail, you'll be presented with the simplified redesign. To switch back, simply disable or delete the plugin.