Google now lets users change Gmail addresses

Google has introduced a long-awaited feature allowing users to change their Gmail addresses, offering relief to those stuck with outdated or embarrassing email IDs created years ago.

The feature was quietly rolled out in India late last year and is now available to all Google Account users in the United States, the company said in a recent blog post. However, it did not specify when the update will reach other countries.

Google CEO Sundar Pichai hinted at the significance of the update, noting that users no longer need to be tied to email names created decades ago when Gmail first launched.

To change an address, users can go to their Google Account settings, navigate to "Personal info," and select the email section. If eligible, they will see the option to change their Gmail address, though Google said the feature is still being gradually rolled out.

Users must choose a unique email address that hasn't been used before. Once changed, the old address will remain active as an alternate, and emails sent to either address will be delivered to the same inbox.

However, users can only change their Gmail address a limited number of times and must wait 12 months before making another change.

Google also warned that some third-party apps and services may not immediately recognise the new address, potentially causing temporary access issues.