Google Lets Users Change Gmail Addresses Safely
Google has announced a long-requested update that allows users to change their Gmail address without losing existing data, a shift many users have waited years to see.
Why this update matters
For many people, Gmail accounts were created early in life, often with usernames that no longer feel professional. Until now, changing a Gmail address meant creating a new account and losing emails, files, and history. With this update, users can change their “@gmail.com” username while keeping all attached data intact. As a result, career continuity and personal records remain unaffected.
How the new Gmail address change works
Currently, the guidance for this feature appears only on the Hindi version of Google’s support page. Therefore, the rollout may begin in India or other Hindi-speaking markets. With the update, users can switch to a new Gmail address while keeping the same account. After the change, emails sent to the old address will still arrive in the same inbox. In addition, both the old and new addresses will continue to work for sign-in, and account access will remain unchanged. However, users cannot modify or delete their email address again for 12 months. Each account can make up to three changes, allowing a total of four Gmail addresses.
What users should know before changing
Even after the update, the old Gmail address may still appear in some places. For example, older Google Calendar events may not immediately reflect the new address. Users will also continue to send emails from the old address if they choose. Importantly, the original Gmail address remains permanently tied to the account and cannot be claimed by another user.
