Gmail may have left beta, but you can send it back with Google Labs

Google has recently taken Gmail, Calendar, Docs and Talk out of beta, and while some people may not have given it a second thought, there are some that seem to be missing the “Beta” tag. After all, it has been listed as beta for so long, most people were beginning to think that it was going to remain that way forever.

Now thanks to Google Labs, the beta tag can be added back to the Gmail logo with just a few clicks of the mouse. I guess this would be a nice option for those who have become so used to the beta tag that it still seems funny to see Gmail as a non-beta branded service.

In order to send Gmail back to beta, just login to your Gmail account and click on the “Settings” link in the upper right hand corner. Once in the settings, look for the “Labs” link. From there, you can scroll down a little and you will see the option for “Back to Beta” which does just what it sounds like. Once enabled, it will add the somehow comforting “Beta” label back on the Gmail logo.

“Soothes the soul by putting the familiar beta sticker back on the Gmail logo.”

Just to summarize, go to Settings -> Labs -> Back to Beta -> Enable. Then on the flip side, if you decide in the future that Gmail needs to leave beta behind once again, just follow the same steps and make sure you choose “Disable” at the end.

Of course, either way, this is just a tag, but still it is funny to see it even available. That said, if you have not already, check out Google Labs, there are a few goodies included that may help make your Gmail experience a little better.