NEW YORK, Jan 19: Google announced major updates to its Gmail platform on Monday, introducing new AI features for all users and giving account holders the option to change their primary email address without creating a new account.

The changes represent one of the largest shifts in Gmail in over two decades, affecting more than 2 billion users worldwide. Previously restricted to paid accounts, AI tools, including AI Overviews, Help Me Write, and Suggested Replies, will now be available for free.

“Today we’re bringing @Gmail into the Gemini era,” Google said, describing the AI features as a personal, proactive inbox assistant designed to help users manage their messages and organize their inbox more efficiently. Users can choose to enable or disable the features.

Enabling the AI tools requires sharing email content and metadata with Google’s Gemini system, raising privacy and security considerations. The AI assistant is designed to suggest actions, streamline message management, and provide a more personalized email experience.

In addition, Google now allows users to change their primary Gmail address while retaining all existing data, with the previous email address continuing to function. This option offers a fresh start for those using old or outdated addresses, though changes are limited over a set period.

Google advised users to consider privacy, security, and account protection before enabling the AI features, citing ongoing risks from hackers targeting Gmail accounts.

The updates aim to modernize Gmail, combining AI assistance with more flexible account management to give users greater control over their inbox experience.