For the first time in Gmail’s history, google is rolling out a feature that lets personal users change their @gmail.com email address without creating a new account or losing years of data tied to it. This is a long‑awaited update that’s gradually becoming available in many regions.
🆕 What’s Changed?
Previously, if you didn’t like your Gmail address (for example, an old teenage username), the only way to get a new one was to create a brand‑new google Account and lose access to your old email history, Drive files, and connected services.
Now — as part of a phased rollout — google has started allowing some users to change their Gmail address directly from their existing account, keeping all their data and settings intact.
Key points of the update:
- 🔁 Old Gmail address becomes an alias — you’ll still receive emails sent to the old address in your inbox.
- 📥 Emails, files, contacts, photos, and settings stay intact — nothing is lost when you make the switch.
- 📌 You can sign in with either email (old or new) across Gmail, Drive, YouTube, Maps, and other google services.
- ⏱️ Limits apply — changes may be limited to once every 12 months, and you can make only a few (e.g., up to 3 total) changes in a lifetime.
- 🚧 Rollout is gradual — not all users see the option yet; google is expanding availability slowly.
🛠️ Step‑by‑Step: Change Your Gmail Address
Here’s how you might see and use this new option (steps are based on current support pages and gradual rollout behaviour):
1. Open google Account Settings
On your phone or computer, go to your google Account:
Make sure you’re signed in with the Gmail address you want to change.
2. Go to Personal Info
In the left sidebar or menu, tap “Personal info.”
Scroll to the “Contact info” section.
3. Find Your Email
Under “Email,” you may see your current @gmail.com address.
If the feature has rolled out to your account, you’ll see an option like “Change your Gmail address” or an edit icon next to your email.
💡 If this option doesn’t appear yet, it means the feature hasn’t reached your account. Keep checking back — it’s being rolled out in phases.
4. Choose a New Email Username
Tap the edit or change email option.
Enter the new @gmail.com username you want and check if it’s available.
Confirm your choice following the on‑screen instructions.
5. review Important Notes
Before finalizing:
- ✔️ Your old email will still work as an alias.
- ✔️ You will receive messages sent to both addresses.
- ❗ You may only be allowed one change per year (limits may vary).
🧠 Tips & Things to Know
- 📩 Email flow stays seamless: Since the old address becomes an alias, people sending mail to your old ID won’t be affected.
- 🔐 All data stays with you: Emails, Drive files, Photos, and subscriptions remain attached to your account.
- 📆 Limits protect against abuse: You can’t change your Gmail address repeatedly within short periods.
- 🌍 Still rolling out: Some users may not see the option yet — patience is key.
🏁 Why This Matters
This feature finally gives Gmail users control over their email identity without forcing them to start a new account. Whether you want a more professional address or just a cleaner one, it’s now possible to update your email while keeping everything you’ve built over years.
Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.
click and follow Indiaherald WhatsApp channel