Google is rolling out a significant update that allows users to change their primary @gmail.com email addresses without losing existing data or access to linked services.
The tech giant confirmed that the feature is being deployed in phases, meaning the option may not be immediately available to all account holders.
According to Google's support documentation, the transition is designed to be seamless. Once a user updates their email handle, the original address is automatically converted into an "alias".
Photo: screenshot
This ensures that any messages sent to the old address will continue to arrive in the user’s inbox alongside mail sent to the new name.
The company emphasized that the change will not disrupt any synchronized data. Users' photos, cloud files, messages and emails will remain intact and accessible under the new identity.
Furthermore, the update offers flexibility in how users access their accounts. Authentication for Google services - including Maps, YouTube and Drive - will support logins using either the original or the newly created email address.
However, the new policy includes specific limitations to prevent misuse. While users can toggle between their new and old addresses, they are prohibited from creating additional new names for a period of 12 months after a change.
Technical reports from 9to5Google suggest that accounts will be limited to a total of 4 names over their lifetime, consisting of the original address and up to three subsequent changes.
To check for eligibility, users can navigate to the "My Account" section of their Google profile. The option is located under Personal Info > Email > Google Account Email, where a "Change Google Account Email" prompt will appear if the feature is active for that specific user (see pix below).
Source: 9to5Google, Google
Photo: screenshot
Photo: screenshot
Photo: screenshot
