A Gmail address change feature lets users replace their @gmail.com email while keeping inbox history, Google Drive files, photos and purchase data intact.

Under the shift, which Google said would eventually be rolled out to all users, old addresses would remain active. Messages and services would not be lost.

Google says it is rolling out a feature that lets users change their Gmail addresses in a long-requested update to their email policy.

Changing your Google account email address has been possible for years, but not if you’re using a “@gmail.com” email address. With literal billions of people using Gmail, that’s why it was a pretty big deal for a Google support page to suddenly reveal that the company is “gradually rolling out” an option to change your Gmail address.

Changing your Gmail address isn’t always straightforward, as Google treats it as your account’s identity. Here’s a simple guide on when changes are allowed, how to make them, and what to know before you proceed.

Anu is a Features author at Android Police. You'll find her writing in-depth pieces about automation tools, productivity apps, and explainers. Before joining AP, she used to write for prominent tech publications like iJunkie and Gizbot. In her free time ...