Social media platform X is launching a new marketplace for inactive usernames, giving Premium subscribers the ability to request and purchase handles, including rare ones that could cost anywhere from $2,500 to over seven figures.
The platform will categorize handles into “Priority” and “Rare.” Priority handles—often full names, phrases, or alphanumeric combinations—will be available for free to Premium+ and Premium Business subscribers who successfully request them. If users downgrade or cancel their subscriptions, the handles will revert to their accounts after 30 days.
Rare handles, which include short or culturally significant names like @Pizza or @Tom, will be distributed through public drops or invitation-only purchases at pre-set prices. X says it will review requests based on a user’s past contributions, intended use, and engagement on the platform.
The marketplace is designed to boost X’s revenue through direct payments while also attracting more Premium subscribers, as the platform continues to grapple with a weakened advertising business. The company said the controlled release is intended to prevent bots from snatching up valuable handles.
