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Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Google has announced that Gmail will end Gmailify, POP access to third-party email accounts, and third-party “Send as” addresses in January 2027. The change is about using Gmail to manage other providers’ accounts—not a new rule that shuts down Gmail or changes how every Gmail user signs in. Google’s separate sign-in protections apply to different workflows and, in some cases, only to Google Workspace accounts.
What Google is changing—and when
Google’s Gmail Help notice says that starting in January 2027, Gmail will stop supporting three ways of handling third-party email accounts: Gmailify, POP access to those accounts, and third-party “Send as” addresses. Gmail-to-Gmail aliases and Google Workspace “Send as” functionality are not included in the third-party “Send as” change. See Google’s Gmail Help notice for the live details and any updated instructions.
Google’s stated schedule is:
| Period | What Google says |
|---|---|
| Q3 2026 | Announcement and notice period. |
| Q3–Q4 2026 | Transition period. Existing third-party Gmailify, POP, and “Send as” configurations continue to work, though Google may restrict new configurations. |
| January 2027 | Full removal of the affected features. |
The dates and transition details come from Google’s notice and rollout information, which may change; consult the live Help page before making a migration plan.
What the change does not mean
- It does not mean ordinary Gmail accounts are being discontinued.
- It does not end all access to non-Google inboxes in Gmail: Google says third-party accounts can still be added and used in the Gmail app on Android, iPhone, and iPad.
- It does not remove Gmail-to-Gmail aliases or Google Workspace “Send as” functionality.
What to use instead for a third-party inbox
Choose based on where you want to read mail, whether your provider supports standard mail protocols, and whether you need that provider’s own features. Google lists three alternatives in its Gmail Help guidance.
#1 Best Overall
- Attention-grabbing design meets the latest evolution of the Google Pixel Camera on the new Google Pixel 11 Pro; Gemini Intelligence helps manage details so you can live in the moment[1]; and the phone is available in two sizes
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan: Works with Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers[2]
- Stay informed without looking at your screen: When your phone is face down, Pixel HiLight gently alerts you with subtle glowing lights when your favorite contacts are calling or you’re talking with Gemini; exclusive to Google Pixel 11 Pro phones
- Magic Capture catches the moment as you live it: With just one tap, Pixel 11 Pro captures video and photos, and automatically edits, crops, and unblurs a curated collection, ready to share – and you get the memory of how it felt to be in the moment
- Two new cameras for more brilliant photos: A larger telephoto sensor captures 30% more light for clear, beautiful photos and videos, even in the dark[3]; Pixel’s longest zoom ever helps you capture details from impressive distances[4]
| Option | Best fit | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Provider’s website or app | You want provider-specific features and settings. | Use the provider’s own sign-in and follow its account guidance. |
| Desktop mail client using IMAP/SMTP | You want to handle multiple inboxes in one desktop program. | Confirm that the provider supports IMAP and SMTP and check its setup and authentication requirements. |
| Gmail mobile app | You want to keep using Gmail’s interface on a phone or tablet. | Google says non-Google accounts can continue to be added and used in the Gmail app on Android, iPhone, and iPad. |
These options do not all preserve the same workflow. For example, using a provider’s app may offer provider-specific functions, while a desktop client can consolidate accounts if each provider supports the necessary protocols. Google does not identify one universally best choice.
Is Gmail getting rid of POP?
For Gmail’s access to third-party accounts, yes: Google says it will end POP access in January 2027. That statement concerns Gmail retrieving mail from another provider’s account; it is not a claim that every POP-capable mail program or email provider is ending POP. If you need that third-party inbox in a desktop program, check whether the provider supports IMAP/SMTP and follow its configuration instructions.
Rank #2
- Google Pixel 10a is a durable, everyday phone with more[1]; snap brilliant photography on a simple, powerful camera, get 30+ hours out of a full charge[2], and do more with helpful AI like Gemini[3]
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan; it works with Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers
- Pixel 10a is sleek and durable, with a super smooth finish, scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass 7i display, and IP68 water and dust protection[4]
- The Actua display with 3,000-nit peak brightness shows up clear as day, even in direct sunlight[5]
- Plan, create, and get more done with help from Gemini, your built-in AI assistant[3]; have it screen spam calls while you focus[6]; chat with Gemini to brainstorm your meal plan[7], or bring your ideas to life with Nano Banana[8]
Does this change Google sign-in in Outlook or other apps?
Not by itself. The January 2027 feature change concerns Gmail’s handling of third-party email accounts. Separately, Google says username-and-password-only access from less secure apps, third-party apps, or devices stopped being supported for Google Workspace accounts beginning in January 2025. That Workspace policy is distinct from the Gmail transition and should not be generalized to every Google Account or mail client.
For apps that connect to a Google Account
- Use “Sign in with Google” when available. Google recommends this route for apps that support it.
- App passwords are a limited fallback. Google says they may work for some older apps when 2-Step Verification is enabled, but they are not recommended in most cases. They are 16-digit codes and are revoked when you change your Google Account password. The option may not be available for some account types or configurations, including Workspace, Advanced Protection, or security-key-only setups. See Google’s app-password guidance.
Do you need a passkey or security key to use Gmail?
No. Passkeys and physical security keys are sign-in options, not prerequisites for ordinary Gmail use. A passkey can use a fingerprint, face scan, or device screen lock. Google Account Help says biometric data used for fingerprint or face unlock stays on the device and is never shared with Google; see Google’s passkey guidance. Workspace users may have different passwordless sign-in options depending on administrator settings. Google announced in July 2025 that passkeys were generally available to more than 11 million Google Workspace customers; that figure describes Google’s Workspace customer base at that time, not Gmail users generally. Details are in the Google Workspace Blog post.
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When Advanced Protection may make sense
Google recommends Advanced Protection for people at elevated risk of targeted online attacks. It requires a passkey or security key for sign-in and limits access by some third-party apps. Google recommends adding account recovery contact details; an optional backup passkey or security key can also be kept. It is a higher-security choice, not a requirement for ordinary Gmail use. Read Google’s Advanced Protection information.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.If Google flags a sign-in method as at risk
Use Google’s current account-security instructions rather than approving a method you do not recognize. In your Google Account, review Recent security activity. If the method is yours, Google may require an additional check before it can be re-enabled. If it is unfamiliar, remove it and change your password. Google says an unverified at-risk method is automatically removed after 30 days. After authentication or recovery changes, activation can take up to seven days; a trusted passkey or security key may allow some methods to be approved sooner. Follow Google’s instructions for at-risk sign-in methods.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Google Pixel 7 is powered by Google Tensor G2; it’s faster, more efficient, and more secure, with the best photo and video quality yet on Pixel[1].Other camera description:Front,Rear.Bluetooth Version 5.2 with dual antennas for enhanced quality and connection.
- Unlocked Android 5G phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan[2]; works with Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers
- Pixel’s Adaptive Battery can last over 24 hours; when Extreme Battery Saver is turned on, it can last up to 72 hours[3]
- The 6.3-inch Pixel 7 display is super sharp, with rich, vivid colors; it’s fast and responsive for smoother gaming, scrolling, and moving between apps[4]
- Google Pixel 7 has wide and ultrawide lenses with up to 8x Super Res Zoom[5]; and Cinematic Blur brings more drama to your videos
Rank #4
- Google Pixel 10 Pro is the ultimate Pixel experience, featuring advanced AI with Gemini, unbelievable camera quality, impeccable design in two sizes, and the next-gen Google Tensor G5 chip[1]
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan[2]; it works - Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers
- Get a head start on syncing your data before it even arrives: After you purchase your new Pixel, look for an email that explains how to transfer your photos, videos, passwords, and more in just a few quick steps[11]
- Pixel’s pro camera system makes everything look amazing, even in low light; capture more of the scene with advanced Google AI models, and bring out incredible details with 100x Pro Res Zoom, stunning 50 MP images, and super steady videos in 8K[10]
- Pixel 10 Pro is built with durable aluminum and Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 for scratch and drop resistance; the 6.3-inch Super Actua display with 3,300-nit peak brightness is easy on the eyes, even in direct sunlight[3,13,18]
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