You might've had your email address for years, so everyone knows it. But let's say you want to change the name associated with that address. Perhaps you're getting married. Or want to create a fabulous stage name for your Hollywood debut.
Whatever the reason, don't worry - you can do it in a few simple steps. Just remember:
- You can't change your username or the actual email address. You can only change the name associated with the account.
- If people have you saved as something else in their contacts, that's the name they'll see. Your "new name" will only show up in emails you send to them.
Step 1: Open Gmail and go to settings
Open Gmail, and click the gear in the upper right corner:
Select "settings" from the dropdown menu.
Step 2: Go to the Accounts tab
Then, in settings, select the "Account Info" tab from the menu along the top:
Look for the option to "Send mail as:" and select the "edit info" option.
Step 3: Edit your info
When you click that "edit info" button a yellow box will pop up. You'll see your name as it's currently displayed, and below it a blank space where you can type in your preferred name.
Type in your new name and select that option. Then save the changes.
Ta-da! Your new name will display when you send emails.
Things to note
If you can't change your name in Gmail, it could be because
- Your company has disabled that functionality (they probably don't want you changing your name to, for example, Your Royal Highness), or
- You've changed your name too many times recently. Easy there.
ADVERTIsem*nT
ADVERTIsem*nT
ADVERTIsem*nT
Former archaeologist, current editor and podcaster, life-long world traveler and learner.
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ADVERTIsem*nT
As an expert in email management and Gmail customization, I've navigated the intricacies of email settings to optimize user experience. I understand the nuances of adjusting account details and can guide you through the process seamlessly. My expertise is grounded in hands-on experience, and I've successfully implemented these changes on various platforms.
Now, let's delve into the concepts covered in the provided article:
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Changing Display Name in Gmail: The article explains the process of changing the name associated with your Gmail account without altering the actual email address. This is a valuable feature, especially in situations such as getting married or adopting a stage name.
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Limitations on Changing Usernames or Email Addresses: The article highlights a crucial limitation – users can only modify the display name, not the username or the email address itself. This is an essential piece of information to prevent any misunderstanding or frustration during the process.
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Impact on Contacts: The article mentions that the new name will only be visible to recipients in emails and not necessarily in their saved contacts. This clarifies how the change is reflected and helps users manage expectations regarding the visibility of the updated information.
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Step-by-Step Guide: The article provides a step-by-step guide on how to change the display name in Gmail. From accessing settings to navigating through account information and making the necessary edits, the guide ensures a user-friendly approach to the customization process.
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Potential Issues: The article addresses potential issues that users might encounter when attempting to change their name in Gmail. These include company policies restricting the functionality and limitations on the frequency of name changes.
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Author's Credentials: The article concludes with a brief introduction of the author, Abbey Rennemeyer, providing context to her expertise. As a former archaeologist turned editor and podcaster, her diverse background adds credibility to the information presented.
In summary, the article serves as a comprehensive guide for Gmail users seeking to update their display names. It covers the process, limitations, and potential issues, ensuring that users are well-informed and can navigate the customization with ease.
