Google on Wednesday said its Gmail service is now open to anyone who wants an account. Previously the service, which provides users with 2.8GB of e-mail storage space, has been by invitation only.
I still don’t like the terms and conditions of gmail, invitation, non-invitation or otherwise.
I don’t like the idea of them scanning my emails for marketing or possible ad delivery.
I don't like the idea of them scanning my emails for marketing or possible ad delivery.Unfortunately all email is scanned for one reason or another. I know that my Comcast email is scanned even if I don't see a few non offensive ads. ;D I received an invitation shortly after gmail became available and use it extensively.
According to the FAQ, you either have to give them a mobile number or you need an invite from a current gmail user.
Apparently Google doesn’t want to become a haven for spammers like Hotmail and Yahoo.
Whether this approach will work or not is another matter.
The same approach was also used by AOL when they offered customized email addresses.
( I still have 64 invitations left… ;D )