Upcoming Changes to Gmail and Google Workspace

Google is rolling out a significant security update for Gmail, and users have until September 30, 2024, to adapt to the new security protocols. This update will affect any third-party apps or devices that access Gmail through simple password-based logins, often termed “less secure apps.” After the deadline, these methods will be disabled as Google enhances account security to better protect against cyber threats.

If you’re using older methods, such as outdated versions of Microsoft Outlook, Thunderbird, or certain iOS and Mac apps, you’ll need to transition to more secure access options like OAuth 2.0. This protocol adds an extra layer of protection. If you don’t update your settings before the deadline, you’ll encounter login errors, and access through these less secure methods will be blocked.

This change is part of Google’s broader initiative to enhance user account security by eliminating outdated and vulnerable access methods.

What’s Changing?

• Discontinuation of Google Sync: Google Sync will no longer be supported. This protocol was used primarily for syncing emails, calendars, and contacts on older applications like Outlook.
• End of Support for Less Secure Apps: Support is ending for apps and devices that use basic username-password authentication, which are now deemed less secure. This includes older email clients that don’t use OAuth 2.0, a more secure authorization protocol.
• Mandatory Use of OAuth 2.0: Moving forward, Gmail and Google Workspace accounts must utilize OAuth 2.0 for third-party app access. OAuth 2.0 enhances security by allowing access without sharing usernames and passwords directly with third-party apps.

• Outdated Email Clients: Users relying on older email clients like Outlook 2016 or apps like Thunderbird may experience disruptions if they don’t switch to updated methods. After the deadline, login errors may occur.
• Increased Security: While this update improves overall security, users who haven’t updated their apps will need to do so or risk losing access. This change may be inconvenient for those accustomed to legacy systems or unfamiliar with OAuth.
• Mobile Device Disruptions: Some older mobile devices or apps that don’t support OAuth will be unable to connect to Gmail accounts, which could affect the syncing of calendars, contacts, and emails.

Impacts for Gmail and Google Workspace Users

Suggested Solutions

• Upgrade Your Email Client: Transition to newer versions of email clients like Outlook 365 or the latest version of Thunderbird, which support OAuth 2.0.
• Use Google’s Native Apps: Consider using Gmail’s web client or Google’s official mobile apps for Android and iOS for uninterrupted access.
• Reconfigure Accounts with OAuth: For any third-party apps you’re using, update them to utilize OAuth 2.0 for authentication. Google provides detailed guides on how to do this for various apps.
• Remove and Re-add Accounts: On devices such as iOS Mail and macOS Mail, you might need to remove and re-add your Google accounts to ensure OAuth is used.

For more detailed information on these changes, please visit Google’s official blog.