Google has announced that users can now change their Gmail usernames, allowing them to update outdated or unprofessional email addresses. According to HuffPost, this feature is rolling out first to U.S. users and will gradually become available globally.
Key Takeaways
Google has introduced a new feature allowing users to change their Gmail usernames without losing access to their accounts. This update enables users to update outdated or unprofessional email addresses, keeping both the old and new addresses active for one year.
- Google now permits changing Gmail usernames once every 12 months
- Users can keep their old address active after making a change
- The feature is currently rolling out to U.S. users first
- All emails and data will remain accessible after the change
The new setting enables users to change the username portion of their email address while retaining access to both the old and new addresses for at least a year. As reported by The Guardian and arstechnica.com, this means that emails sent to either address will still reach the user's inbox, ensuring no interruption in service.
To change their email address, users need to log into their Google Account settings. From there, they can navigate to Personal info > Email and Google Account email. If available for their account, they will be able to modify their username. arstechnica.com notes that the feature has been in testing for some months and is now rolling out widely in the U.S.
The change comes as Gmail celebrates its 22nd anniversary since launching on April 1, 2004. Many users have previously abandoned old addresses due to personal reasons or name changes. With this new feature, users no longer need to create a new account to update their email address.
Google has set a limit of one username change per year to prevent spam and ensure the stability of user accounts. The company also assures that all emails, data, and historical information such as photos will remain accessible after the change.
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