Gmail users will soon have the option to change their email addresses, a feature that could finally allow them to ditch embarrassing or outdated usernames. This long-awaited capability is now being rolled out, though not all users will see it immediately.
The ability to alter a Gmail address—without losing access to the account—is a significant shift for Google's email service. Users who have been stuck with an address that no longer reflects their identity or professional image can now update it while maintaining continuity of service. The old address will remain as an alternate, ensuring no emails are missed during the transition.
Changing the address is simple but requires a few steps. Users must first log into their Gmail account and navigate to the Google Account settings page. From there, they select 'Personal Info' and then 'Email.' If the option to change the address appears, users can proceed with the update. However, not all accounts will show this feature yet, as the rollout is still in progress.
For those who prefer not to change their actual email but still want to hide an embarrassing username, Google also offers a way to set a display name. This allows users to send emails under a different name while keeping their original address intact. To access this, users go to Gmail settings, select 'Accounts and import,' and then edit the 'send mail as' information.
While the feature is welcome news for many, it’s worth noting that some accounts linked to the old email—such as banking or social media profiles—may require re-verification after the change. Users should be prepared to update their login details across various services if they choose to proceed.
The rollout of this feature comes at a time when digital identities are increasingly scrutinized, making it an opportune moment for users to refresh their online presence. For those who no longer use their Gmail account, Google also offers the option to delete inactive accounts after two years, though it has recently clarified that it does not scrape user emails for AI training purposes.
