Google Launches Long-Awaited Feature to Change Gmail Addresses

UPDATE: Google has just announced a highly anticipated feature allowing users to change their Gmail addresses ending with @gmail.com. This groundbreaking update is expected to roll out gradually starting in January 2024, giving users a chance to shed outdated email addresses without losing access to their accounts.

The new guidelines were first discovered by users in a “Google Pixel Hub” Telegram group, who noticed changes on the Hindi-language version of Google’s help page. The updated support documentation clarifies that users with Gmail addresses can now opt to change their email to another @gmail.com address, allowing for a fresh start without losing any data tied to their accounts.

“Users will receive emails sent to both the old and new addresses, and they can still use the previous address whenever they want,” states the updated guideline. This means that individuals can transition to a new email while maintaining access to all their Google services, including YouTube, Drive, and Maps.

The announcement highlights that once the email change is made, the old address will become an alternate email. However, users should note that they will not be able to create another new Gmail address for the same account for 12 months after the change.

For those in regions where the new feature is live, eligibility can be checked by visiting myaccount.google.com/google-account-email and navigating to “Personal information.” If the option is available, users will see a button to “Change Google Account email.”

While the updated language has been spotted in various languages, including Spanish, French, and Japanese, the English version of the help center has yet to reflect these changes. As users eagerly await the rollout, this feature promises to alleviate the embarrassment of outdated email addresses and offers a chance for a digital refresh.

The development is significant for millions of Gmail users globally, many of whom have held onto old email addresses that no longer represent their current identities. As Google continues to enhance user experience, this new feature positions the tech giant as responsive to its users’ evolving needs.

Stay tuned for further updates as Google rolls out this exciting new capability.