For years, Google users have been stuck with the email addresses they created when they first signed up.
If you picked an embarrassing username years ago or simply want a more professional handle, the only previous solution was to create a brand-new account and migrate your data manually. Now, Google is rolling out a major update that changes the rules.
According to new support documentation, Google is introducing the ability to change an existing Google Account email address (ending in @gmail.com) to a completely new one, without losing the account itself.
How the New Feature Works
The update allows users to replace their primary email address while keeping the same account history.
When you make the switch, your old email address does not disappear. Instead, Google automatically converts your old address into an “alias.”
This is a critical safety net. It means that if friends, family, or services send emails to your old address, you will still receive them in your inbox.
Furthermore, all your saved data, including Google Photos, Drive files, and past email history, remains unaffected by the change.
Step-by-Step Guide
Because this feature is rolling out gradually, it may not be available to every user immediately. To check if you are eligible:
- On your computer, navigate to myaccount.google.com/google-account-email.
- Select “Personal Information” on the left.
- Click on “Google Account email.”
- Look for a new option labeled “Change your Google Account email address.”
If the option is missing, the feature has likely not reached your account yet. If it is available, you can click it and enter a new, available username.
While this feature offers flexibility, Google has implemented safeguards.
Once you change your address, you cannot create another new @gmail.com address for the next 12 months. However, you can revert to your old address at any time.
Google also warns that changing your primary email is technically similar to signing into a new device. This may reset some app settings.
Users who rely on “Sign in with Google” for third-party websites or use Chromebooks should review Google’s support guidelines, as they may need to re-authenticate their sessions.
As a precaution, Google recommends backing up contacts and mobile data before initiating the switch.
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