August 10, 2026, 11:06 am | Read time: 3 minutes
Google clarifies the timeline for several changes to Gmail. Starting January 2027, key features for third-party accounts will be permanently removed. Those using Gmail as a hub for multiple mailboxes should review their settings and set up alternatives in advance.
For many users, Gmail has long been the central hub for multiple email addresses. Google is now significantly restricting this use. Starting January 2027, Google will completely remove several features for third-party accounts. These include Gmailify, POP3 retrieval on the web, and “Send as.”
Restrictions may occur even earlier. In the third quarter of 2026, a notification phase will begin to inform users in Gmail about the changes. During the transition period until the fourth quarter of 2026, the features will continue to operate. However, new setups may already be limited during this phase.
Overview
Gmailify and POP3 retrieval will be removed
Gmailify previously allowed accounts from providers like Yahoo or Outlook to be connected with Gmail, utilizing Gmail features. These included spam protection, inbox categories, Gmail search, and push notifications. These additional features will no longer be available for external accounts.
The POP3 retrieval on the web will also be discontinued. POP3 is an older retrieval method that allowed Gmail to fetch messages from other mailboxes. In the future, Gmail will no longer retrieve new emails via POP3 from external mailboxes on the web. However, already imported messages will remain.
In the web version of Gmail, third-party accounts can no longer be added or further synchronized. This affects retrieval via the browser. A full IMAP connection of external mailboxes directly in Gmail is also not planned. Folders, structures, and changes cannot be centrally synchronized as a result.
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Sending from foreign addresses no longer possible
Additionally, Google is removing the “Send as” feature for third-party addresses. Users will no longer be able to use such addresses as senders in the web or mobile Gmail apps.
This affects external addresses from providers like Yahoo or Outlook. Other Gmail addresses and aliases running through Google Workspace are not affected.
Also of interest: If users do not do this, Google will delete the Gmail account
These alternatives remain for Gmail users
Those who want to continue receiving new messages from external mailboxes in Gmail can set up automatic forwarding with the respective provider. This forwarding ensures that incoming emails are sent to the Gmail account. However, it does not replace the previous Gmailify features.
Forwarding only affects incoming messages. Sending via the external address is not replaced by this. So, those who previously replied via Gmail with an external address will need to find another way in the future.
The mobile Gmail app for Android, iPhone, and iPad remains usable. Third-party accounts can still be added and used there. However, the mobile app does not replace the POP3 retrieval on the web or the discontinued Gmailify features for external accounts.
On computers, traditional mail programs like Outlook, Thunderbird, or Apple Mail remain an alternative. Multiple accounts can be retrieved separately there. Those using Gmail in one of these external mail programs can continue to access it via IMAP or POP. The Gmail API also remains available for programmatic access.
Whether an account is affected can be checked in Gmail in the browser. Users open the settings and switch to the “Accounts and Import” section. Under “Check mail from other accounts,” the integrated external mailboxes are listed. POP3 entries indicate that action is needed.
Google also warns against third-party tools, as they may require access to login data or OAuth tokens.