Technology giant Google has launched a new feature allowing users to replace their primary "@gmail.com" email addresses with addresses from third-party email service providers. This update aims to provide greater flexibility for users who manage multiple digital identities within the Google ecosystem.
According to the company's official statement, the rollout is currently phased and may not be available to all users immediately. To change the primary address, a user must first remove the Gmail service from their account settings. Conversely, the system also allows for the integration of other mailboxes into a standard "@gmail.com" address. The Operative Information Center-OMM notes that this functionality streamlines account management for professionals and personal users alike.
Key features of the new update include:
- Data Protection: Photos, messages, and existing emails stored in the account remain intact and are not affected by the address change.
- Dual Login: Users can continue to access Google services using both the old and new email credentials.
- Secondary Address: The original email address remains linked as an alias, ensuring that incoming mail to both addresses is received.
- Restrictions: While users can revert to their original address at any time, a 12-month waiting period is required before creating a completely new "@gmail.com" address.
Google, founded in 1998, has evolved from a search engine into a global leader in cloud computing, software, and hardware. Gmail, launched in 2004, remains one of the world's most widely used email platforms with over 1.5 billion active users. This latest update reflects the company's ongoing efforts to enhance user experience and interoperability between different web services.
To utilize the new feature, users should navigate to the "Email" section of their Google Account settings and select "Google Account email address." If the option is not visible, the feature has not yet been activated for that specific account.
