In May this year, Google decided to drop a bombshell on its users: inactive accounts would face the chopping block by the end of 2023. Talk about a digital apocalypse! But don't worry; there is a method to avoid this destiny worse than a terrible movie sequel.
Initially, Google's hit list included any account that had been dormant for more than two years. The Grim Reaper was on his way to collect forgotten usernames and passwords, and it appeared that no virtual gravestone would be spared. YouTube, however, managed to negotiate its existence in a dramatic twist worthy of a Hollywood film. Google announced that YouTube content will work as magical amulets, preventing accounts from being permanently deleted. Thank you for the minor favors, algorithm!
But don't panic just yet! Google's watchful overlords will not take your prized memories and emails without notice. They prefer to create suspense and tension. The account apocalypse will spread slowly, like a zombie apocalypse, beginning with the oldest and dustiest accounts and waiting until December 2023 to hit the delete button.
Google sends more alerts than a frantic text-happy adolescent to ensure no one misses the memo. They'll email your account and recovery email addresses if you have one. "Please stay with us; we need you!" Google nearly whispers.
But don't worry dear users; help is on the way. Google graciously released the account survival keys. To keep your account kicking and breathing, you must log in at least once every two years. It's similar to watering your virtual plants but far less time-consuming.
So, what exactly constitutes activity, you ask? Simple! Simply go through your virtual checklist:
The basic thing is, don't let your account collect digital dust. It's the equivalent of tossing away a winning lotto ticket! If you stay engaged, you will not be sent to the digital abyss.
So, guys, consider this a gentle reminder to check in and twitch those virtual fingers every two years. Show Google that you're still alive and well, and it'll spare your account from the dreaded "delete" option.
Keep those pixels pumping; you'll be as immortal as your favorite meme. We scarcely knew you, inactive accounts! Google's new motto: "Log in, or log out... permanently." You have a choice!
Read next: Google Lays Off Members Of Its Assistant Team In Bid To Empower It With Generative AI
Initially, Google's hit list included any account that had been dormant for more than two years. The Grim Reaper was on his way to collect forgotten usernames and passwords, and it appeared that no virtual gravestone would be spared. YouTube, however, managed to negotiate its existence in a dramatic twist worthy of a Hollywood film. Google announced that YouTube content will work as magical amulets, preventing accounts from being permanently deleted. Thank you for the minor favors, algorithm!
But don't panic just yet! Google's watchful overlords will not take your prized memories and emails without notice. They prefer to create suspense and tension. The account apocalypse will spread slowly, like a zombie apocalypse, beginning with the oldest and dustiest accounts and waiting until December 2023 to hit the delete button.
Google sends more alerts than a frantic text-happy adolescent to ensure no one misses the memo. They'll email your account and recovery email addresses if you have one. "Please stay with us; we need you!" Google nearly whispers.
But don't worry dear users; help is on the way. Google graciously released the account survival keys. To keep your account kicking and breathing, you must log in at least once every two years. It's similar to watering your virtual plants but far less time-consuming.
So, what exactly constitutes activity, you ask? Simple! Simply go through your virtual checklist:
- Read an email or send one. You know how much you like Grandma's heartwarming chain emails.
- Make use of Google Drive. It's time to rescue those priceless cat photos!
- View a YouTube video. Cat videos are also OK.
- Go to the Google Play Store and get an app. Perhaps something for stalking... er, we mean, admiring your crush.
- Use the all-powerful Google Search. Because Googling "how to keep my Google Account" would be just too hilarious, wouldn't it?
- Sign in to a third-party app or service with the option "Sign in with Google." Just be careful not to sell your soul in the process.
The basic thing is, don't let your account collect digital dust. It's the equivalent of tossing away a winning lotto ticket! If you stay engaged, you will not be sent to the digital abyss.
So, guys, consider this a gentle reminder to check in and twitch those virtual fingers every two years. Show Google that you're still alive and well, and it'll spare your account from the dreaded "delete" option.
Keep those pixels pumping; you'll be as immortal as your favorite meme. We scarcely knew you, inactive accounts! Google's new motto: "Log in, or log out... permanently." You have a choice!
Read next: Google Lays Off Members Of Its Assistant Team In Bid To Empower It With Generative AI
