Google appears to be rolling out a long-awaited feature that would let users change their Gmail email address without losing access to existing emails, files, or Google services, potentially ending years of frustration for users stuck with outdated or embarrassing email IDs.
The update was first spotted by users in the Google Pixel Hub Telegram group and later reported by 9to5Google, indicating that Google is quietly testing or gradually releasing the feature.
Gmail Address Change Feature Spotted on Support Page
According to a Hindi version of Google’s Gmail support website, the company is “gradually rolling out to all users” the ability to change the email address linked to a Google account.
Notably, this includes the option to switch from one @gmail.com address to another @gmail.com address, something that has historically not been possible for most users.
Old Gmail Address Will Continue to Work as an Alias
One of the most significant aspects of the new feature is that users will not lose their old Gmail address after making the change.
According to the support page:
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The old Gmail address will remain active as an alias
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Emails sent to the old address will still be delivered
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Users can sign in using either the old or new Gmail address
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All existing emails, Google Drive files, and services will remain intact
This approach removes the need to create a new Google account or manually migrate data.
Important Limitation After Changing Gmail Address
There is, however, a key restriction. Once a user changes their Gmail address:
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They cannot create another new Gmail address on the same account for 12 months
This limitation appears to be designed to prevent frequent changes or misuse of the feature.
English Gmail Support Page Not Yet Updated
As of the latest check, the English-language Gmail support page has not been updated to reflect this change. It still states that @gmail.com addresses usually cannot be changed, advising users instead to:
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Modify the name associated with their email, or
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Create a new Google account and manually transfer emails and contacts
This discrepancy suggests the feature is still in early or regional rollout stages.
Google Has Not Made an Official Announcement Yet
Google has not officially announced the feature or confirmed a global launch timeline. However, the wording on the Hindi support page strongly suggests a phased rollout, meaning availability may depend on:
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Region
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Account type
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User eligibility
More clarity is expected once Google updates its global support documentation or makes a formal announcement.
Why This Gmail Update Matters
If widely released, this feature would be one of the most significant Gmail usability updates in years, addressing a common user complaint and offering greater flexibility without disrupting existing digital data.
