Gmail Simplifies Email Address Changes: Learn How

Taylor Keatsman

ago 1 hour

Google has introduced a significant update to Gmail, allowing users to change their email address without the need to delete their existing account. This new feature aims to simplify the management of email identities, particularly for those wishing to update outdated usernames.

Gmail Simplifies Email Address Changes

Previously, changing a Gmail address required starting fresh or removing an account. Users with third-party email linked to their Google Account were not impacted by this limitation. However, now Google enables users to modify their actual email address, enhancing flexibility and convenience.

Key Features of the Email Address Change

Users can retain their original email address as an alias.
Both the new and old email addresses will receive emails.
The feature can only be used once every 12 months, for a total of up to three times.

This capability started to roll out late last year and has gained momentum recently. Initially available only in varied languages, the feature is now accessible on the main English support page, confirming its broader distribution.

How to Change Your Gmail Address

The process for modifying your Gmail address is straightforward. The following steps can be applied regardless of the user’s location:

Visit myaccount.google.com/google-account-email.
Select “Personal info” from the left menu.
Click on the Email card.
Choose “Change your Google Account email address.”
Enter your new desired username.
Select “Change email address” and confirm your choice.
Complete the process by following the provided instructions.

Potential Issues Following a Change

Google advises that users might encounter various changes in Google app settings, such as reset options for the Gmail background or missing chat tabs. Users may need to make adjustments after switching their username. This transition is part of a gradual rollout to all users, with updates expected soon for those who have not yet received the feature.

In summary, this significant shift allows Gmail users to evolve their email identities easily. With these changes, Google is ensuring that managing email addresses becomes a simpler, more user-friendly experience.