Google has introduced a new feature that allows users to change their Gmail address ending in @gmail.com to a completely new one. This is a new feature added by Google that was not possible earlier. In simple terms, this means people can now update old or outdated email IDs without losing their account data or access to services.
“2004 was a good year, but your Gmail address doesn't need to be stuck in it. To say goodbye to v0t3f0rp3dr02004@gmail.com or mrbrightside416@gmail.com (or whatever you were into at the time), go to your Google Account settings and choose any name available. You'll keep your old username and you can sign in with both,” said Sundar Pichai, Google CEO on X.
What this update means
A Google account email is the main identity used to access services like Gmail, YouTube, Google Maps and Google Drive, so this change gives users more flexibility without affecting their data. As per the new feature, after changing the email address, the old Gmail ID does not disappear but becomes an alternate email. This means users will continue to receive emails on both the old and new addresses. Importantly, all data, including emails, photos and messages, remains unchanged, and users can log in using either address. Google also allows users to switch back to the old email if needed, but there is a restriction that a new Gmail address cannot be created again for the next 12 months, and the newly created email cannot be deleted.
However, Google has advised users to be cautious before making the change, as some services and settings may be affected. For instance, those using a Chromebook, signing into third-party websites using Google accounts, or accessing systems through Chrome Remote Desktop may face minor disruptions and may need to reconfigure settings. The company has also recommended backing up important data as a precaution, since some app settings may reset, similar to when logging in on a new device.
How to change it?
To change the Gmail address, users need to go to their Google Account settings, check if the option to change the email is available under personal information, and then choose a new username that is not already taken. Once confirmed and completed through on-screen instructions, the new email becomes the primary address while the old one remains linked. Overall, this update is significant as it allows users to modernise their email identity without losing years of stored data or access to essential Google services.