After years of user requests, Google is finally introducing a feature that allows personal Gmail account holders to change their primary ‘@gmail.com’ email address while keeping all their emails, data, subscriptions, and services intact. The update, which was spotted on Google’s support pages, marks a significant shift from the previous policy where ‘@gmail.com’ usernames were considered permanent.
How the username change works
Users with a personal Google Account ending in ‘@gmail.com’ can replace their existing address with a new one that also ends in ‘@gmail.com.’
The old address will automatically become an alias, i.e., emails sent to it will continue to arrive in the same inbox, and it can still be used for signing into Google services like YouTube, Drive, Maps, and Play Store. All existing data, purchases, and account history remain unaffected.
To access the feature (once available):
- Go to myaccount.google.com
- Select “Personal info” from the menu
- Click on Email > Google Account email
- If rolled out to your account, you’ll see an option to “Change your Google Account email address”
- Enter and confirm an available new username
The change may not immediately reflect in older instances, such as pre-existing Calendar events, which could still display the old address.
Limitations and eligibility
The feature comes with safeguards to prevent abuse:
– Changes are limited to once every 12 months
– A maximum of three changes per account (resulting in up to four total addresses)
– After changing, the old address cannot be used to create a new, separate account until the 12-month cooldown ends
It applies only to personal @gmail.com accounts. For work, school, or group-managed accounts, users must contact their administrator.
The rollout is gradual, with updated support documentation first appearing in Hindi. This suggests an initial focus on India before global expansion. As of now, the option may not be visible to all users.
This update addresses a long-standing frustration for many Gmail users—especially those stuck with embarrassing or outdated usernames created in their youth. Previously, the only workaround involved creating a new account and manually migrating data, often leading to complications with linked services.
Note that Google has not made an official announcement yet, but the support page updates confirm the feature is actively rolling out. Users are advised to back up important data before proceeding, particularly if using ChromeOS devices, as some settings may require re-authentication.
