Google has introduced a way to modify your Gmail username, allowing users to keep their existing account while switching to a new @gmail.com address. For instance, someone with an outdated or awkward email like [email protected] can transition to something fresh like [email protected] seamlessly, which is ideal for those reluctant to start over with a new account.
The email linked to your Google Account serves as the login credential for various Google services and acts as your primary identifier. Users have the option to update this address, provided both the old and new versions end in @gmail.com.
To access this setting, sign into Gmail via a computer using this convenient link, then select your profile icon in the upper right corner and choose 'Manage your Google Account.' From there, navigate to 'Personal info' on the left sidebar, click 'Email' on the right, and under 'Google Account email,' select 'Change Google Account email' to update it.
Keep in mind that this capability is being deployed progressively, so it may not appear for everyone immediately. Google notes that 'The ability to change your Google Account email is gradually rolling out to all users and this option may not be available to you yet.'
Once the feature is accessible, Google recommends following the on-screen guidance. However, altering your Gmail username could impact certain functionalities, such as interactions with specific Google services, using the email for third-party logins, or operations on Chromebooks. To restore the original address, Google explains the process as follows:
Your former Google Account email will persist as a secondary contact option. Switching back to it can be done whenever needed.
To revert, return to the 'Google Account email' section in your settings, locate the previous email, and choose 'Make this your Google Account email.'
Be aware of these restrictions: You may return to the prior email unlimited times, but creating a fresh @gmail.com address is limited to once per year and a maximum of three occurrences overall.
Google suggests creating a data backup prior to the change, as certain applications might require reconfiguration. Incoming messages to the old address will continue to arrive at the new one, and archived emails from before the switch will remain accessible.
If the goal is simply to adjust the name that appears when sending emails, this can be done separately without altering the username. In Gmail, go to Settings, select 'See all settings,' then under 'Accounts and Import,' click 'Send mail as' and choose 'Edit info.'
This piece was first published in our affiliated outlet PC-WELT and adapted from its German version.
Hans-Christian Dirscherl's career in IT started with early tools like Autoexec.bat and config.sys, along with programming in Turbo-Pascal and C, and systems such as Sinix and WordPerfect. For about 25 years, he has contributed articles on diverse IT subjects, including updates, evaluations, and purchasing advice.