X is moving forward with its strategy to increase revenue by monetizing dormant usernames on its platform. Recent updates to X’s web application reveal the introduction of a “handle inquiry” process, allowing Verified Organizations—those paying $1,000 monthly subscriptions—to bid on abandoned usernames. Initial bids will start at $10,000, with some handles potentially fetching prices exceeding $500,000, as outlined in a newly discovered FAQ in the app.
These updates were first identified by reverse engineer Nima Owji, who informed TechCrunch that the changes went live on Wednesday. However, the platform for organizations to purchase handles is not yet accessible to the public.
The concept of selling usernames was previously discussed under Elon Musk’s leadership. In January 2023, The New York Times reported that the company, then known as Twitter, was contemplating an online auction format for username bidding.
Musk has consistently advocated for making X’s namespace accessible to active users, having eliminated several inactive accounts in May 2023. In November 2023, Forbes noted that X was actively reaching out to potential buyers interested in acquiring unused handles, although there was no official announcement at the time. Currently, X’s guidelines on inactive accounts specify that the company “cannot release inactive usernames at this time,” though there have been instances of individuals acquiring usernames unofficially.
By enabling organizations to officially buy usernames, X can diversify its revenue sources beyond subscriptions, advertising, and developer access. This initiative may also motivate users to maintain activity on the platform to avoid their handles becoming idle and subsequently available for sale.
The recently published FAQ addresses several common questions users might have about the new process, detailing how to initiate a handle inquiry, the sales procedure, and the transfer mechanism. According to the upcoming website, users interested in acquiring a username will interact with an automated support bot to explore purchase possibilities. X will confirm availability within three business days. Once a handle is purchased, transfer to the new owner will occur within one or two days, or it can be assigned to another existing account owned by the business.
Additionally, potential discounts might be offered for bulk handle purchases, contingent on the quantity and size of the quote. X has not responded to inquiries regarding its plans for handling usernames.
