Google is phasing out two long-standing features within Gmail – Gmailify and POP access – impacting millions of users who rely on the services to consolidate email accounts. The changes, announced by Google, will streamline the Gmail experience but require users to adapt how they manage email from other providers like Outlook and iCloud Mail.
For years, Gmailify allowed users to apply Gmail’s features, such as advanced spam protection and intelligent inbox organization, to email accounts from other services. POP access, a protocol for downloading messages from other email providers, enabled users to centralize their communications within the Gmail interface. The move reflects Google’s ongoing effort to simplify its services and encourage users to remain within the Google ecosystem, according to WIRED.
Google eliminará dos importantes funciones de Gmail y la decisión afectará a millones de usuarios. (Imagen: Gemini AI)
What Were Gmailify and POP?
Gmailify, introduced in February 2016, essentially brought Gmail’s smart features – like spam filtering and categorized inbox tabs – to non-Gmail accounts. It utilized a form of IMAP technology to sync emails, offering a more integrated experience. POP, was a long-standing protocol that allowed users to download emails from other accounts directly into Gmail. While widely used for decades, POP has largely been superseded by IMAP, which synchronizes email across devices rather than downloading it to a single location.
Timeline for the Changes
Google will stop offering Gmailify and POP access to new users starting in the first quarter of 2026. Existing users will continue to have access to these features for a period of time, but functionality will be discontinued “later in 2026,” according to Google’s support documentation. This phased approach allows users time to adjust their email setup.
What are the Alternatives?
Google is offering several alternatives for users affected by these changes. For those who utilized Gmailify, the company recommends adding external accounts directly to the Gmail app on Android or iPhone using IMAP. This will allow users to read and send emails from those accounts within the app, though they won’t receive all of Gmail’s exclusive intelligent features on the web version.
For users who relied on POP to access email on computers, Google suggests setting up automatic forwarding from the original email provider to their Gmail account. This will ensure new messages are delivered directly to their Gmail inbox. Alternatively, users can also add their external accounts to the Gmail app via IMAP for a unified mobile experience.
How to Add Another Account to the Gmail App
Adding an external email account to the Gmail app is a straightforward process:
- Open the Gmail app.
- Tap your profile picture in the top right corner.
- Select “Add another account.”
- Choose your email provider and follow the on-screen instructions.
Manual configuration is also possible, but it requires more technical knowledge and is generally more complex.
As Google continues to refine its services, these changes reflect a broader trend toward consolidation and simplification. While the removal of Gmailify and POP access may require some adjustments for users, the company is providing alternative solutions to maintain a connected email experience. The transition will be complete later in 2026, and users should begin exploring these alternatives now to ensure a smooth shift.
If you’re concerned about these changes or have questions about how they will affect your email setup, Google’s support resources offer detailed guidance. You can find more information and assistance at Google’s Facilitate Center.
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