Google Tests Offline Gmail
Google is experimenting with a Gmail feature that you’re unlikely to see in other webmail services: an offline mode. As always, you can sign up for it if you like. Here’s how it works:
Once you turn on this feature, Gmail uses Gears to download a local cache of your mail. As long as you’re connected to the network, that cache is synchronized with Gmail’s servers. When you lose your connection, Gmail automatically switches to offline mode, and uses the data stored on your computer’s hard drive instead of the information sent across the network.
You can continue to use Gmail as if you were online. Star messages, label and read them, etc. If you send something, it will remain in your outbox until a connection is re-established. There’s also a “flaky connection mode” (I would’ve preferred “wonky”) if your Internet access is hovering between stable and unreliable, so it’s got all bases covered. Of course, standard disclaimers apply. This feature is still experimental. If you’ve got important email coming back and forth, you better make sure your connection is solid first. Hit the source for the full details, as well as the procedure on how to turn this on for your email.
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