X's marketplace to offer 'rare' usernames for millions

X’s Handle Marketplace to Sell Rare Usernames for Millions of Dollars

X is taking a bold step by launching its handle marketplace, a move long anticipated by fans of the platform. The company recently announced that it will start selling “inactive” usernames, with some of the most desired handles potentially fetching millions of dollars. The marketplace will allow paying subscribers to request and purchase these coveted usernames.

Types of handles available include “priority” usernames—think full names and popular phrases—and “rare” handles, characterized by their short, generic, or culturally meaningful names. Interested buyers will need subscriptions to X’s Premium+ or Premium Business tiers to access some “priority” handles, with examples like @PizzaEater and @GabrielJones highlighted by the company. However, buyers must maintain their Premium subscription; otherwise, X retains the right to revoke their access to the handle.

Acquiring a “rare” handle promises to be an intricate process. X will host “public drops,” where handles are awarded based on a user’s engagement and past contributions, and may conduct sales through invitation-only methods, fixed prices varying from $2,500 to over a million, depending on factors like popularity and significance.

While Andrew Allemann, publisher of Domain Name Wire, likens X’s plan to a marketplace for expired domains, he cautions potential buyers about existing policies that allow X to reclaim handles deemed inactive after just 30 days. This raises critical concerns about user rights and handle permanence.

As X aims to set new standards for social media handles, keen observers wonder who will benefit or be penalized under their merit-based system. Regardless, social media users should remain mindful that they do not possess ownership of their online identities entirely.

What are your thoughts on X’s new handle marketplace? Share your opinions below!