Google Drops POP3 Support for Gmail, Migrates to IMAP
Google has announced significant changes to its email services. Starting January 1, 2025, the tech giant will discontinue support for the POP3 protocol for fetching emails from third-party accounts in Gmail. This shift aims to improve security and efficiency, but it requires users to adapt their email management practices.
The move does not impact emails already synced in Gmail accounts. However, users will no longer be able to fetch mail from other accounts using the POP3 protocol via the Gmail interface on computers. Google advises users of work or education accounts to consult their administrators for assistance in migrating to Google Workspace.
Google recommends switching to the IMAP protocol for reading and sending emails from other mail accounts in the Gmail app. The 'Gmailify' feature, which extended Gmail functionalities to external email accounts, will also be discontinued starting January. Additionally, Google will cease providing 'better mobile email notifications' and faster search using search operators.
Users must ensure they stop using the POP3 protocol for third-party email accounts in Gmail by January 1, 2025. Google's changes require users to update their email settings and potentially migrate to Google Workspace for business or education accounts. The shift to IMAP and the discontinuation of certain features aim to enhance security and improve overall user experience.
