Google is testing a temporary email address feature in Gmail

Google may soon offer a new temporary email address feature called «Shield Email». References to this development were found in the latest version of the Gmail app for Android, Android Authority reports.

What is Shield Email?

The concept is simple:

• Users get a temporary email address that can be used instead of their primary email address.
• All emails sent to this address are forwarded to the main mailbox.
• If the address is no longer needed, it can be deleted, thus saving yourself from unwanted mail without using spam filters.

Shield Email features:

• Inbox only: Likely like other similar services, Google will probably only allow emails to be accepted to a temporary address to prevent abuse, such as mass spamming.
• Multiple temporary addresses: A screenshot from Autofill with Google hints that users will be able to create multiple temporary addresses at once, making the service more versatile.

Development Status

For now, Shield Email is just an experimental feature found in the app’s code and user interfaces. Google hasn’t officially confirmed its development, so it could either become a reality or be canceled.

Market Competition

Temporary email addresses have long been offered by third-party services, often for free. However, if Google brings the feature to Gmail, it could simplify the process for users and integrate with the company’s other products.

We’ll keep an eye on developments and report back with new details.