Gmail users often deal with confusion about who an email address belongs to and where emails are sent. With 2.5 billion active accounts, it’s no surprise this issue is frequently raised in Gmail support forums. A recent leak suggests Google is working on a “Shielded Email” feature, which could enhance email privacy and address some of these concerns.
What Is Shielded Email?
According to Android Authority, Shielded Email would allow Gmail users to create single-use, disposable email aliases. This feature, uncovered in a coding teardown of Google Play Services, resembles Apple’s Hide My Email, which generates random email addresses to protect personal accounts when signing up for services.
The leak revealed a new setting within Google Autofill, hinting that the Shielded Email system is in development. While the feature is not yet functional, its potential to improve privacy could make it popular among Gmail’s privacy-focused users.
Why Dots in Gmail Addresses Confuse People
A common Gmail misconception involves the use of dots in email addresses. Gmail ignores dots in usernames, meaning “johnsmith@gmail.com”, “john.smith@gmail.com”, and even “j.o.h.n.s.m.i.t.h@gmail.com” are treated as the same account.
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Google’s policy ensures no two users can register dotted versions of the same username. However, mistakes can happen when someone types the wrong version of an email while filling out forms or subscribing to services. For instance:
– If “johnsmith@gmail.com” is your email, and someone mistakenly enters “john.smith@gmail.com”, the email will still come to you.
– However, email sent to “john.43.smith@gmail.com” won’t, as it’s a different username entirely.
This policy leads to confusion but is not a breach of privacy or proof that two people share the same Gmail address.
A Step Toward Better Privacy
If implemented, Shielded Email could provide a much-needed layer of protection by letting users create aliases for subscriptions or one-time use. This would limit how often users need to share their primary Gmail address, reducing spam and potential misuse.
Though Google hasn’t confirmed Shielded Email, the concept aligns with the growing demand for privacy-first solutions. If successful, it could help Gmail remain competitive in a market increasingly focused on user privacy.
