Google’s Major Gmail Update: How to Change Your Account Username

Google has introduced a feature that allows users to change the username portion of their Gmail address, which is the section of the email preceding @gmail.com. This update removes a long-standing restriction that previously required users to create entirely new accounts if they wanted a different email address.

The ability to change a username is currently available for all Google Account users in the United States. According to Google, the rollout of this capability began in 2025 to allow accounts to evolve with the user.

Username Changes and Data Retention

Unlike creating a new account, this feature allows users to update their digital identity without deleting their existing account or losing stored data. Users who change their username retain their existing inbox, messages, contacts, and access to other Google services.

To prevent loss of communication, Google has implemented automatic forwarding. Emails sent to the old username are automatically routed to the new address.

How to Change a Gmail Username

The feature is rolling out gradually and may not be available for all accounts or regions. For users with access, the process is managed through Google Account settings rather than the Gmail app. The steps are as follows:

• Sign in to the Gmail account.
• Select the profile picture in the top right corner and select Manage your Google Account.
• Navigate to the Personal info section in the left-hand menu.
• Scroll to the Contact info or Email section.
• Under Primary email, select the option to Change Gmail address…

Distinction Between Username and Account Name

Google maintains a distinction between the Gmail username and the name linked to the email address. Changing the account name does not change the email address itself.

For example, a user can change their display name from Lisa Brown to Lisa Jones while keeping the same email address. This process is handled within the Gmail settings on a computer by navigating to See all settings, selecting the Accounts and Import or Accounts tab, and clicking Edit info under the Send mail as section.

The username change is a separate function that alters the actual sign-in identity used for Gmail, Photos, Drive, and other integrated Google services.

Technical Context

For nearly two decades, Gmail users were unable to modify their email addresses after creation. This often left users with addresses that were considered unprofessional or outdated. The introduction of username modifications provides users with control over their digital identity without the need to migrate data manually between accounts.

Google has also provided documentation for developers to support Google Account username changes within their own applications.