Google begins rolling out Gmail address changes for existing accounts
The long-requested option lets users pick a new Gmail username, though availability is limited and changes come with strict limits.
For years, Gmail users have been stuck with the email address they chose on day one. Unlike many third-party email services, Google never allowed users to edit or update an @gmail.com address once it was set. That long-standing limitation now appears to be changing.
According to an updated Google support page, the company is gradually rolling out the ability to change a Google Account email address even if it ends in @gmail.com. The change lets users pick a new Gmail username while keeping their existing Google account and its history intact.
When the feature becomes available, it will appear under Personal info → Email in your Google Account settings. If you see a “Change email address” option, you’ll be able to choose a new Gmail ID, as long as it isn’t already tied to another Google Account.
Kelechi Edeh
Google says the update doesn't affect account data. Emails, photos, Drive files, messages, and other content remain unchanged after the address is updated. There are, however, clear limits. After changing your Gmail address, you won’t be able to change or delete it again for 12 months. Each account is also capped at three changes in total, allowing up to four Gmail addresses over the lifetime of the account.
The rollout appears to be gradual. The updated wording currently shows up in select regions and languages, suggesting Google is testing the feature before making it widely available. Not every account will see the option immediately.
For users stuck with outdated, awkward, or regret-filled Gmail usernames, this is a meaningful shift. It doesn’t reinvent Gmail, but it finally removes a frustration many users assumed would never be fixed.
Emmanuel Umahi
