Google opened up its webmail service to all comers Wednesday. Gmail, which has for almost three years been available by invitation only, can now be signed onto by anyone. However, the company said it is still retaining its beta status.

Each Gmail account has at least 2.6+ gigabytes of storage and it comes with built-in Google search technology. Although there are no pop-ups in Gmail, small text ads are relevant to the user's messages appear in the Gmail interface.

Since Gmail users often stay on Google's Web site while they do searches, the company can find out more about individual preferences by widening its e-mail user reach.

Reports Wednesday said Google will probably begin charging for extra storage, but details have not yet been ironed out.