Gmail Users Can Now Change Their Email Address: Here’s How It Works

Gmail email address change feature: In a major update, Google has begun rolling out a long-awaited feature that allows Gmail users to change their email addresses. This update offers greater flexibility for users who want to replace an outdated, unprofessional, or unwanted username—without losing their account data.

The feature was first spotted by members of the Google Pixel Hub Telegram group and later reported by 9to5Google. While the rollout is gradual, it marks a significant shift in how Google manages Gmail identities.

Who Is Eligible to Change Their Gmail Address?

Not all Google accounts qualify for this feature. Eligibility depends on how your account was created.

1. Third-Party Email Accounts

Users who signed up for a Google account using a non-Google email address (such as Yahoo, Outlook, or Hotmail) will have more flexibility to change or upgrade their linked Gmail address.

2. Standard @gmail.com Accounts

Accounts created directly with a @gmail.com address may still face restrictions. According to Google’s support documentation, full freedom to change usernames is not yet available to all Gmail users.

Important note: Even after changing your primary login email, your old address will remain linked to your account to prevent data loss.

Rules and Conditions for Changing a Gmail Email Address

To ensure security and prevent misuse, Google has set clear limits for this feature:

Dual Email Delivery: Emails sent to both your old and new addresses will still be delivered

No Data Loss: Google Photos, Drive files, emails, and subscriptions remain untouched

Once Per Year: You can change your email address only once every 12 months

Lifetime Limit: Maximum of four email changes per Google account

Gmail-Specific Rule: @gmail.com addresses can be changed only three times

Username Protection: Your old email address is permanently reserved and cannot be used by others

How to Check If You’re Eligible to Change Your Gmail Address

Follow these simple steps to see whether your account supports this feature:

Go to Account Settings

Click on “Personal info” from the left menu

Under Contact info, select Email

Click the Google Account email

If the option is editable, your account is eligible

If you can’t access this setting, the feature is not yet enabled for your account.

Why This Gmail Update Matters

This update is handy for:

Professionals wanting a cleaner or business-friendly email

Users are stuck with outdated usernames

People who made spelling mistakes during signup

It also reduces the need to create a new Google account to get a better email address.

FAQs: Gmail Email Address Change Feature

Can I change my @gmail.com address completely?

Not all users can. Eligibility depends on account type and Google’s rollout phase.

Will I lose my emails or Google Drive data?

No. All existing data remains safe and unchanged.

Can someone else use my old Gmail address?

No. Google permanently reserves your old username.

How many times can I change my Gmail address per account?

Up to 4 times per account (3 times for @gmail.com addresses).

Is this feature available worldwide?

Google is rolling it out gradually, so availability may vary by region and account.

Conclusion

Google’s new Gmail email change feature is a game-changer for millions of users who want more control over their digital identity. While the feature is still rolling out and comes with strict limits, it finally offers a long-requested solution—flexibility without data loss.

If you’ve been waiting to upgrade your Gmail address, now is the time to check your eligibility.