Many users are currently embarrassed by the strange Gmail IDs they created for fun during high school or childhood. For official communication, job applications, business, or personal branding, those old email addresses have become a source of discomfort.
In this situation, tech giant Google has delivered major good news for the users.
After a long wait, Google is about to introduce the option to change email addresses for Gmail users. Through this new feature, users will be able to use a smarter and more professional email address while keeping their current Gmail account.
Recently, Google updated its official support document, where the option to change a Gmail address is mentioned. Although Google has not released a separate major press release, the addition of this change to the support page is being considered the formal announcement of the feature.
According to technology analysts, Google typically adds new features to the support page first, then rolls them out to users in phases.
New features
- Users will be able to change their @gmail.com username.
- The old Gmail ID will remain active as an alias after acquiring the new address.
- Emails sent to the old address will also arrive in the same inbox.
- The account will remain intact across all Google services, including Google Drive, Photos, YouTube, and Maps.
- There is no risk of losing any emails, files, or data.
Google has stated that this feature is being launched in phases (gradual rollout). That is, it is not for all users at once. Initially, this option is visible in some specific countries and accounts. Gradually, users in other countries around the world will also get this facility.
However, Gmail addresses cannot be changed arbitrarily and repeatedly.
- A Gmail ID can be changed a maximum of once per year.
- There may be a limited total number of changes (approximately 3 times) allowed for one account.
- After a change, the old address cannot be used by anyone else.
In the current digital age, an email address is a significant part of a person’s identity. In all areas – jobs, freelancing, business, YouTube, or online branding – a professional email address increases credibility. Therefore, technology experts believe Google’s initiative is timely and important for millions of users.
