What is a Google Account?

A Google Account lets you use an email address and password or passkey to get Google-wide access to most Google products. Your Google Account helps you get the most out of all the Google services you use by personalizing your experience across devices and gives you control over your data.

When you’re signed in, you get access to helpful features like Autofill, helpful recommendations, easy access to your most important information from anywhere, and much more.

In your Google Account, you can edit personal info and control where it appears, as well as update privacy and security settings. Your Google Account is also a safe, central place to store your personal information like credit cards, passwords, and contacts.

Find out if you have a Google Account

You already have a Google Account, if you:

  • Have a Gmail Account
  • Use an email and password to sign into Google services
  • Use Google services on an Android device

You’re not currently signed in to a Google Account.

Your Google Account and Google services

A Google Account is necessary to save data when you use Google services like:

  • Gmail
  • Photos
  • Google Play

You can use other Google services without a Google Account, but it creates enhanced experiences when you’re signed in.

For example, if you’re signed in to your Google Account you can:

  • Resume a YouTube video on a different device.
  • Choose to have info sync between services so that an email about an upcoming flight is added directly to your Google Calendar.
  • Automatically fill in passwords, addresses, and payment details with info saved to your account.
  • Choose to sign in to third-party apps or websites safely and quickly.

Your Google Account also has built-in security that keeps your info safe but allows you easy access across services.

Commonly asked questions

How do I create a Google Account?

If you think you already have an account, you can check for an existing account. If you don't have an existing account, you can create a new Google Account.

Can I change my user name or Gmail address?

No, you can’t change your user name or Gmail address, but you can update your personal info and its visibility to other users. Learn how to control what others see about you across Google services.

How do I manage or secure my Google Account? How can I recover my Google Account? How can I sign in to a different account?

If you have more than one Google Account, you can switch accounts.

Do I need to create a new account if I get a new Android device?

No, you can transfer your Google Account to your new device and keep the benefits of your existing account. Learn how to switch to a new Android device.

Is a Google Account the same as a Gmail address?

No. Gmail is one of several Google services that you can use and save data with if you have a Google Account. Other Google services that you can use with your Google Account include:

  • YouTube
  • Google Drive
  • Calendar
  • Google Play

Tips:

Are there age requirements for a Google Account?

Yes. To manage your own account, you must meet the age requirements for your country. Learn about age requirements on Google Accounts.

Tip: For younger children, parents can help create and manage a Google Account with Family Link.

How can I help keep my Google Account safe?

There are several recommended steps to make your account more secure.

If you notice any unfamiliar or suspicious activity on your Google Account, you should take action to secure a hacked or compromised Google Account.

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