Change your Gmail address easily with Google’s newly introduced feature that allows users to modify their primary “@gmail.com” address sans the hassle of establishing a fresh account or moving data.
The update, first noticed by the technology news platform 9to5Google, represents a notable change in Google’s approach. Traditionally, once a user selected their “@gmail.com” username, it became a permanent fixture. The sole method for obtaining a new address was to start afresh, often leading to the loss of years of emails, app purchases, and cloud storage content.
What happens to the current address?
As per the updated support guidelines, the transition is intended to be smooth. When a user changes their primary email address, their original address is automatically transformed into an “alias,” allowing the user to receive emails at both the new and old addresses. This means that any emails sent to the previous address will still appear in the same inbox, ensuring that no messages are lost during the update.
Moreover, Google has assured that the modification will not impact any data linked to the account. Photos, Drive files, and existing messages will remain unaffected. Users will also be able to access Google services (like YouTube, Maps, and Play Store) using either their new email handle or the original address for added ease.
Key restrictions and information
While this feature significantly benefits those wanting to replace “unprofessional” or outdated usernames, there are specific limitations put in place by Google to prevent misuse:
Time Limits: Users may alter their primary address only once every 12 months.
Lifetime Limit: An account can only have a total of four addresses during its lifetime (the original address and three subsequent changes).
Syncing Period: Google advises that it could take between 24 to 48 hours for all services to completely synchronise with the new primary identity.
How to change your email:
On Android
Step 1: On your Android device, navigate to myaccount.google.com/google-account-email. A sign-in may be required.
Step 2: At the top, select “Personal info.”
Step 3: Tap on Email and then Google Account email.
Step 4: Under “Google Account email,” click Change Google Account email.
On Computer
Step 1: On your computer, go to myaccount.google.com/google-account-email. You may be prompted to sign in.
Step 2: On the top left, click “Personal info.”
Step 3: Click Email, then Google Account email.
Step 4: Under “Google Account email,” click Change Google Account email.
On iPhone & iPad
Step 1: On your iPhone or iPad, open myaccount.google.com/google-account-email. A sign-in may be needed.
Step 2: At the top, select “Personal info.”
Step 3: Tap Email and then Google Account email.
Step 4: Under “Google Account email,” tap Change Google Account email.
Note: If the “Change Google Account email” option is not available, it may currently not be possible to alter your Google Account email.