Here is another in a series of Google softwares that is still in Beta [testing] stage that you might be interested in. If you are a Gmail user you can install Gmail Notifier which will allow you to view your mail without opening up a browser. According to Google they describe their software product as:

The Gmail Notifier is an application that alerts you
when you have new Gmail messages. It displays an icon in your system
tray to let you know if you have unread Gmail messages, and shows you
their subjects, senders and snippets, all without your having to open a
web browser.

The Notifier is in beta. Before you download it, we encourage you to review the system requirements and privacy information.

As with any testing software, heed the warning from Google and use with caution. Some Beta software may have undesirable effects on your system.

Comments welcome.

Google notifier here.

[tags]google, notifier, gmail, download, install, free, browser, messages, [/tags]