GoKawiilGoogle and Apple offer tools to manage accounts after a user's death
Google's Inactive Account Manager, launched in 2013, lets users set their account to delete or forward data to up to 10 trusted contacts after three, six or 12 months of inactivity. Without this setup, Google automatically flags accounts for deletion after two years of inactivity, detected via sign-ins or app usage. Family members can also contact Google directly to request deactivation of a deceased relative's account early, though they won't receive any of the account's data.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
As more of people's lives and memories exist in digital accounts, the lack of planning for 'digital afterlife' can leave families locked out of meaningful data like photos or messages. Tools like Inactive Account Manager suggest tech companies are trying to balance user privacy with the practical needs of grieving relatives. The fact that families get no data without prior setup underscores how much control rests with the original account holder's advance decisions.
- Google's Inactive Account Manager lets users designate trusted contacts to receive data after inactivity.
- Without setup, Google deletes accounts after two years of inactivity by default.
- Family members can request early deactivation but cannot access the deceased's data without prior planning.
Source: engadget.com — Kari Paul, 2026-10-12
Published there as: “What happens to Google and Apple accounts when the owner dies?”
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