Google now enables Gmail users change their email address and display name without creating a new account, according to its Google Account Help page. The feature allows users to keep their data, emails, and other account information while switching to a new @gmail.com address.
The change may not be available yet in other countries. Google said the new option now exists for those who want a different address, which was not allowed before.
When users change their address, their original email will still remain so emails sent to the old address will still arrive in the inbox, and the old address can still be used to sign in to Google services like Drive, Maps, and YouTube.
There is a caveat though. Accounts that update their Gmail address cannot create another new Gmail address for 12 months, and the new address cannot be deleted. Users need to be careful before making a change.
Before this update, getting a new Gmail address required creating a separate account and manually transferring all data. This process could be complicated and could cause problems with apps or services connected to the original account. With the new option, users can switch addresses without losing emails, files, photos, or other important account information. Google said users can also reuse their old Gmail address at any time.
This update makes it easier for long-time Gmail users to refresh their accounts while keeping existing data intact. It also ensures emails and sign-ins continue to work smoothly, giving users more flexibility without disrupting connected services.