Google Drops Gmailify, POP3 Support in January 2026
Google has announced significant changes to its email services. Starting January 2026, the tech giant will discontinue the 'Gmailify' feature and drop support for the POP3 protocol. These changes will impact how users access and manage emails from third-party accounts within Gmail.
The 'Gmailify' feature, introduced in 2016, allowed users to extend Gmail's functionalities to external email accounts, including those from Yahoo and Outlook. However, Google will discontinue this service, along with 'better email notifications on smartphones' and faster search using search operators. These changes will not affect previously synchronized emails in the Gmail account.
Google recommends users switch to the IMAP protocol for retrieving emails from third-party accounts. The IMAP protocol allows users to access their emails from multiple devices simultaneously. Google specifically mentions popular mail providers like Gmail, Outlook, and Yahoo as examples for users to transition from POP3 by January 2026. Additionally, Google suggests using the Gmail app and standard IMAP connection for reading and sending emails from other mail accounts.
Users of work or education accounts should contact their administrators for help with migration to Google Workspace. The 'Fetch mail from other accounts' option in Gmail on the computer will also be unavailable.
The discontinuation of 'Gmailify' means users won't have Gmail's spam protection, faster search, and inbox organization for third-party accounts from Yahoo and Outlook. Google's changes only affect retrieval methods and aim to improve email management and security. Users are advised to make necessary adjustments before the January 2026 deadline.
Read also:
- Bank of America reveals investigation into Zelle platform, hints at potential legal action
- Laura Marie Geissler's Financial Profile and Professional Journey: An In-depth Analysis of Her Financial Status and Career Path
- EV Charging Network Broadens Reach in Phoenix, Arizona (Greenlane Extends Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure in Phoenix)
- Study Outlines Two Scenarios to Boost Saxony-Anhalt's Public Transport
