Google has now allowed users to change the personal address (username) before @gmail.com. While this feature is currently being rolled out only in the United States, it is expected to reach other countries in the near future.

The company has also released a short video explaining how to do this. The main steps are: go to your Google Account settings, then Personal info, then Email, and finally click on Google Account email. You will then see a blue button labeled "Change Google Account email" – click on it and simply select a new name.

Your old address will remain in your account as an alternate email, so emails sent to the old address will still reach you. However, it's important to note that you can only change your Gmail address once every 12 months. Therefore, you should be certain about the new name you choose, as you won't be able to change it again for another year if you're not satisfied.

Since this is a new Google feature, it may take some time to reach all accounts. If you're in the US but don't see this option yet, try checking again in a few days.

Ref: gsmarena