X has revealed a new marketplace designed to allow Premium subscribers to acquire inactive usernames, marking a shift in how the platform manages its digital assets.
This initiative offers both free and paid options to request or purchase dormant handles, with some rare usernames potentially costing from $2,500 up to sums exceeding seven figures.
Within the system, handles are divided into “Priority” and “Rare” categories. Priority usernames usually include full names, multi-word phrases, or alphanumeric combinations, which Premium+ and Premium Business subscribers can request free of charge.
Once approved, X transfers the username without cost. If a subscriber cancels or downgrades their plan, their previous handle will return to their account after a 30-day grace period. Examples cited by X are @GabrielJones, @PizzaEater, and @ParadoxAI.
This marketplace is part of X’s efforts to diversify revenue channels amid the challenges facing its advertising business. By introducing this controlled environment, X hopes to increase demand for Premium subscriptions and generate direct income from username transactions.
Requests for usernames are reviewed within approximately three business days, though approval is not automatic. After acceptance, the requested handle is reserved exclusively, preventing other users from claiming it.
Rare handles—typically short, generic, or culturally significant names—are not available through standard requests. Instead, they are distributed via public drops or direct, invitation-only sales with preset prices.
In public drops, multiple applicants may compete, with selection based on factors such as a user’s past contributions, intended usage, and platform reach. Direct purchase prices depend on popularity, length, and cultural importance. Owners of Rare handles retain them regardless of Premium subscription status. Handles like @Pizza, @Tom, and @One fall into this category.
X explains on its help page that the marketplace prevents bot abuse and misuse by providing a fair and secure distribution method through a controlled process, rather than releasing inactive handles en masse.
Users interested in inactive handles not currently on the marketplace can “Register” their interest and add the handle to their Watchlist to receive notifications if it becomes available.