Google is finally testing a long-awaited feature that could let Gmail users replace their existing email address without creating a new account. This marks a significant shift from its long-standing policy of permanent email IDs. The update is being rolled out gradually and may first become available in India before spreading globally.
For years, Gmail users had no choice but to live with the address they created, even if it was outdated or unprofessional. This change could help users update their identity online while keeping everything in one place.
What is the New Gmail Address Change Feature?
Google’s updated support documentation shows a new option that could allow users with @gmail.com addresses to replace their current email ID with a new one ending in @gmail.com. The old address won’t disappear — it becomes an alias that still receives email.
How to Change Your Gmail Address? Step-by-Step Guide
Google is rolling out the option gradually, so not every user will see it yet. If the feature is available on your account, follow these steps:
Step 1: Open Your Google Account Settings
Go to myaccount.google.com and sign in using your existing Gmail ID.
Step 2: Tap on “Personal Info”
On the left menu, select Personal Info. This section controls your name, contact details, and email settings.
Step 3: Look for the Email Section
Scroll down to the Contact Info area. Under Email, check if you see an option related to changing or managing your Gmail address.
Step 4: Select “Change Gmail Address”
If the feature is enabled for your account, you will see the option to choose a new @gmail.com address.
Step 5: Choose Your New Gmail ID
Enter the new email name you want. Google will check availability instantly. Pick an available option and continue.
Step 6: Confirm the Change
Follow on-screen instructions to verify the update. Once confirmed, your new Gmail address becomes active.
Step 7: Start Using Your New Address
You can now send emails using the new address. Emails sent to the old address will still be delivered to the same inbox.
What Happens After You Change Your Gmail Address?
- Your old Gmail address becomes an alias
- Emails sent to both addresses reach the same inbox
- You can sign in using either email address
- Google services like Drive, YouTube, Maps, and Photos remain unchanged
- Your data, emails, and subscriptions stay intact
When Will This Feature Be Available?
The option to change your Gmail address is currently visible only on the Hindi version of Google’s help page, suggesting the feature is being tested first in India or Hindi-speaking markets. Google has not yet officially confirmed a global rollout timeline.
Google says the feature is being rolled out gradually. That means not everyone will see the option right away, even if they use Gmail daily.
Important Rules You Should Know Before Changing
- You can change your Gmail address once every 12 months
- Google allows limited lifetime changes per account
- The new address cannot be deleted immediately
- The old address cannot be reused for another account for one year
Why This Update Matters?
End of “Stuck With Old Addresses”
Many people created their Gmail IDs as teenagers or for quick sign-ups — and now find them unprofessional or embarrassing. This change finally gives them the flexibility to modernize their email identity without losing years of history.
Better Experience Across Services
Because the old address becomes an alias, there’s no danger of missing emails or breaking logins for third-party apps that use your Gmail to sign in.
Competes With Other Email Providers
Microsoft Outlook and some other services already let users update their email handles more easily. This move helps keep Gmail competitive by offering more user control.
How to Check If You Can Change Your Gmail Address?
If the feature reaches your account, you’ll likely find it in your Google Account settings under “Personal Information” or a similar section. Google hasn’t released step-by-step public instructions yet, but the updated support page offers initial guidance.
