Google Rolls Out New Gmail Feature: How to Change Your Email Address

Google has begun introducing a long-requested capability that could benefit millions of Gmail users — the chance to update their existing email address. The new feature gives users greater flexibility, especially for those who want a cleaner, more professional, or more personalized username, while still keeping their account data intact.

Who Is Eligible to Change Their Gmail Address?

Account type matters

According to a report from 9to5Google, whether a user can change their email depends largely on how the account was originally created.

Third-party accounts

Users who initially signed up for Google using a non-Google email address — such as Outlook, Yahoo, or similar services — will be able to modify the Gmail address linked to their account. This option offers added convenience for people whose older usernames no longer reflect their identity or professional brand.

Standard Gmail accounts

For traditional Gmail users, the situation is different. Many assume that all @gmail.com addresses qualify for this feature, but Google’s support documentation indicates that some restrictions still apply. In many cases, strictly created @gmail.com accounts may not be eligible.

Rollout Observed Across User Groups

The feature was reportedly first noticed by members of the Google Pixel Hub community on Telegram. Google further clarified that although users may update the email address they use to sign in, the original address will continue to stay connected to the account. This ensures continuity — so no messages, files, or access permissions are lost during the switch.

Rules and Conditions for Changing Your Gmail Address

To safeguard user privacy and prevent misuse, Google has established several important rules around this functionality.

Dual Email Delivery

After an address is changed, messages sent to both the new and old addresses will continue to reach the same inbox. This avoids missing important mail during the transition period.

Data Remains Safe

None of your stored information — including Drive files, Google Photos, saved emails, or settings — is affected. Your account simply updates the login identity while retaining the same underlying data.

Time-Based Restrictions

Users are permitted to modify their email address once every 12 months, meaning frequent switching is not allowed.

Lifetime Limits

Over the lifespan of a single Google account, the address can be changed a maximum of four times.

Gmail-Specific Caps

For accounts ending in @gmail.com, the change limit is slightly lower — capped at three total changes.

Username Protection

Google adds another layer of security by ensuring that the previous username remains "reserved". Even after a change, nobody else can register using your former Gmail ID.

How to Check Whether Your Account Qualifies

The feature is being rolled out gradually, meaning not all users will see it yet. To find out if your account is eligible, follow these steps:

Step-by-step guide to verify access

Step 1: Open your account

Log in to your Google Account through a desktop browser.

Step 2: Go to profile details

Navigate to the "Personal info" tab from the side menu.

Step 3: Check email controls

Under "Contact info", choose "Email", and then click "Google Account email".

Step 4: Confirm availability

If this setting cannot be opened or modified, it means the email-change feature has not yet been enabled for your account.

Why This Feature Matters

This update addresses years of user requests. Many people have outgrown old usernames created during school, early careers, or personal phases. Others are moving toward more branded and professional identities, especially as Gmail continues to be widely used for business, job applications, and digital services.

By maintaining strong limits, preserving legacy access, and preventing username theft, Google appears to be balancing flexibility with security.

As the rollout expands, more Gmail users are likely to gain access to this capability — making it one of the most significant account-management upgrades in recent years.