UPDATE: Google has just announced a highly anticipated feature allowing users to change their Gmail addresses ending in @gmail.com. This significant update is rolling out now, just in time for the new year, offering users a chance to refresh their email identities.
According to the latest information from Google’s help center, users will soon have the ability to change their Gmail addresses while keeping the familiar @gmail.com suffix. This announcement was first reported by vigilant users in a Google Pixel Hub Telegram group who noticed the changes in the Hindi-language version of the help page.
The new option is currently being implemented gradually, which means not all users will have access to it immediately. A translated message on the updated help page states, “The ability to change your Google Account email address is being rolled out gradually to all users, so this option may not be available to you yet.” This suggests a worldwide rollout is on the horizon.
While the English-language version has yet to reflect these changes, many other languages—including Spanish, French, and Japanese—are already updated. Presently, the English version still indicates that changing an @gmail.com address is not typically allowed. However, Google’s revised support pages declare, “If your Google Account email address ends in @gmail.com, you may be able to change it to another address that ends in @gmail.com.”
This change is crucial for users who feel their current email addresses no longer represent them or wish to start anew without the risk of losing important data. Once users change their email address, the previous address will automatically convert to an alternate email. This means emails sent to both the old and new addresses will still be received, and users can sign in to Google services like Maps, YouTube, and Drive using either address. Importantly, data associated with the account—including photos and messages—will remain intact.
However, there are some restrictions to be aware of. After changing the email address, users must wait for 12 months before they can create another new Gmail address for the same account. To check eligibility, users in updated regions can visit myaccount.google.com/google-account-email, navigate to “Personal information,” and click on “Email.” If eligible, a button labeled “Change Google Account email” will be available.
This development marks a significant shift in how Google manages user identities, allowing for greater personalization and flexibility. As more users look to update their online presence, this feature is expected to draw considerable interest.
Stay tuned for more updates as this feature continues its global rollout!
