Google Now Lets U.S. Users Change Their Gmail Address

Update allows longtime users to modernize outdated email handles without losing data

By BC News Staff Writer

Google has rolled out a long‑requested update allowing U.S. Gmail users to change their primary @gmail.com address for the first time since the service launched in 2004.

The new option lets users update the username portion of their email while keeping all messages, files, photos, and account history intact.

The change removes a long‑standing frustration for anyone stuck with an outdated or unprofessional address. Until now, users had to create a new account and manually move data, often losing messages or breaking app connections. Google’s update keeps everything in place and simply swaps the address.

Users can change their Gmail address once every twelve months, with a lifetime limit of three total changes.

Old addresses remain active as permanent aliases, and users can still sign in with them. All Google services, including Drive, Photos, Calendar, YouTube, and Maps, automatically update to reflect the new address, though older items may still display the original.

The feature is currently limited to U.S. accounts and is rolling out gradually. Users can check availability in their Google Account settings under Personal Info. Google has not announced when the option will expand internationally.