Gmail users can now adjust their identification address easily. After its introduction in the USA, the new feature is now available in Germany as well.
With this enhanced flexibility in account settings, Google users can modify their primary email address directly through their account overview. Google has announced that this feature is now rolling out in the German market after initially launching in the USA several months ago.
This rollout will happen gradually, so some users might see the functionality appear on their devices in the coming days. A quick test in the CHIP editorial office indicated that the majority of our accounts were already able to make the switch. To change your address, simply open the Google Account Overview.
Changing Gmail Address: Your Data and Media Are Safe
According to Google, there is no need for a migration of personal data during this process. Content in Drive or Photos will remain intact despite the address change. Security is supported by established methods such as two-factor authentication.
The original email address will not be deleted; instead, it will be stored as an alternative login option in the Google account. This supports a smooth “account recovery” process if needed for certain external services. Emails sent to the old address will also remain accessible as usual.
- Automation with Filters and Labels: Instead of manually sorting emails, users can create rules. Incoming messages (like newsletters or bills) can automatically receive colored labels, be marked as important, or be skipped and archived directly in the inbox.
- Use of “Priority Inbox”: Google recommends switching the inbox type to “Priority Inbox.” This setting automatically divides your inbox into relevant sections, placing important and unread messages at the top while separating the rest below.
- Snoozing Emails: If an email is not currently relevant but shouldn’t be forgotten, users can “snooze” it. The message temporarily disappears from view and pops back up at a later defined time (such as the next morning) as new in the inbox.
- Extending Send Delay: In general settings, users can extend the time period to stop an accidental send from the default 5 seconds to up to 30 seconds. This feature can save you if you realize immediately after hitting “send” that an attachment is missing or there’s a typo in the text.
- Utilizing Advanced Search Operators: To keep the inbox tidy or track down old emails, Google recommends using search commands. Inputs like has:attachment larger:10M will find all emails with attachments over 10 megabytes, while older_than:2y specifically shows emails that are older than two years and may be deleted.
Limitations on Multiple Changes and Third-Party Applications
When using third-party applications, such as specific smart home platforms, like Google Home or Nest devices, users may encounter inconsistencies, as noted by “iFun.
While many services will automatically adopt the new data, users might still need to revert to the old email address in specific cases. Furthermore, those who decide to change their email address are subject to a one-year waiting period if they wish to set another Gmail address for the account again.
