In recent news, X (formerly known as Twitter) has been actively trying to find buyers for user handles that were reclaimed from inactive accounts. According to Forbes, the company has even resorted to sending out solicitation emails, asking for a flat fee of $50,000 to initiate a purchase. This move follows Elon Musk’s announcement back in May that X would start purging accounts that have gone dormant, with plans to recycle disused handles.
According to emails obtained by Forbes, X now has a task force called the “@Handle Team” that is focused on creating a marketplace for buying handles tied to inactive accounts. To ensure account activity, X changed its policy this year, requiring users to log in every 30 days. Users who fail to comply risk having their accounts suspended or permanently removed. It remains unclear how long a user must remain inactive to be considered for removal from the platform. Interestingly, after NPR quit the site earlier this year, Musk began threatening to reassign its handle just a few weeks later.
At present, it seems that obtaining an inactive user’s handle is not something easily attainable for just anyone. X’s website still states that it cannot release inactive usernames. However, the Forbes report suggests that the company is considering the possibility of a handle marketplace as another revenue-generating strategy. This move follows the recent introduction of two new subscription tiers for paid users – the $16 per month Premium+ tier and the more affordable $3 per month “basic” tier.
By exploring the potential of a handle marketplace, X could tap into a previously untapped source of revenue while also providing users with the opportunity to acquire desirable handles. This concept could attract businesses or individuals who are interested in securing unique or catchy usernames that were previously unused due to inactivity. The creation of a handle marketplace could also create a sense of exclusivity, as users could potentially own handles that were once associated with prominent or popular accounts.
However, the implementation of a handle marketplace raises several questions and concerns. First and foremost, X must establish clear guidelines and criteria for determining which handles are made available for purchase. It would be essential to prevent any unethical or malicious practices, such as account impersonation or fraud. Additionally, the pricing structure and fairness in allocating desired handles would need to be carefully considered. Creating a transparent and regulated marketplace would be crucial for maintaining the trust and integrity of the platform.
Furthermore, X should also take into account the impact of this move on the overall user experience and community dynamics. Some users may view the sale of handles as a way to monetize the platform at the expense of genuine engagement and meaningful interactions. The company must strike a balance between generating revenue and preserving the essence of its purpose as a social media platform.
In addition to the handle marketplace, X has recently introduced two new subscription tiers to cater to different user preferences and budgets. The Premium+ tier offers users additional features and benefits for a higher monthly fee, while the basic tier provides a more affordable option for those seeking a more streamlined experience. These subscription tiers aim to diversify revenue streams and enhance user satisfaction by catering to individual needs.
As X continues to evolve and explore new avenues for monetization, it is crucial for the company to remain attentive to user feedback and preferences. Striking the right balance between revenue generation and user satisfaction is vital for the long-term success and sustainability of the platform. Ultimately, the introduction of a handle marketplace and the expansion of subscription tiers aim to provide users with more options while supporting X’s financial growth.
