Want to change your Gmail username? Google rolls out long-awaited feature

Google has finally introduced a feature many Gmail users have waited years for the ability to change their Gmail username without creating a new account. Here’s what changes, what stays the same, and how to do it.

New Delhi: Google has introduced a long-awaited feature that allows Gmail users to change the username associated with their Google Account email address. The update means users can now modify the part that appears before “@gmail.com” without creating a completely new account.

The company announced the feature through a blog post, saying the update is designed to help users adapt their digital identity over time. The rollout is currently available for Gmail users in the United States and is expected to gradually expand further.

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The feature is especially useful for users who created email addresses years ago and now want a more professional or updated username.

What changes after updating the Gmail username?

According to Google, changing the Gmail username does not affect the data stored in the account. Photos, emails, contacts, files and messages will remain intact after the transition.

The old Gmail address will automatically become an alternate email linked to the same account. Users will continue receiving emails sent to both the previous and the new Gmail addresses.

Google also confirmed that users can sign in to services such as Gmail, YouTube, Maps, Google Drive and Google Play using either the old or the updated email address.

However, the company noted that once a username is changed, the old Gmail address cannot be reused to create another Google account for at least 12 months.

Important precautions before changing Gmail ID

Google has advised users to back up important data before making the change. The company warned that some app settings could reset, similar to signing in from a new device.

Users are encouraged to back up Android device data, Chrome sync information, contacts, photos, videos and app preferences before proceeding.

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How users can change their Gmail username?

To update the Gmail username, users need to visit their Google Account settings page and navigate to the “Personal Info” section. From there, they can select “Google Account email” and choose the option to change the email address.

Users must select a username that is not already being used by another Google account. After confirming the change, the updated Gmail username becomes active across Google services.

The move marks one of Google’s most significant Gmail account management updates in recent years, offering users more flexibility over their online identity.