New Google feature lets you fix your old email address without losing data

Google has introduced a feature allowing users to change their Gmail address names, marking a major shift in how people manage their digital identities after more than two decades of the platform's existence. The update enables users to modify the portion of their email address that appears before "@gmail.com", offering a level of flexibility that has previously not been available. The feature is being rolled out first in the United States, with access across Android devices, iPhones, iPads and desktop browsers.

The company said the change is intended to give users greater control over how they present themselves online, particularly for those who created email addresses years ago that may no longer reflect their personal or professional identity. Updating a Gmail address will not affect access to existing services. Users will still be able to log in to Google platforms and third-party applications using either the old or new address, while emails sent to both will continue to be delivered without interruption. Users will be permitted to change their Gmail address name only once every 12 months, with a lifetime limit of three changes per account. The development comes as Gmail approaches its 22nd anniversary.

Google said the feature will be expanded to other regions outside the United States in due course, although no specific timeline has been announced. The rollout is part of broader efforts by the company to enhance user experience and modernise its services in response to evolving digital needs.