Social Network X’s Username Market: Where Inactivity Sparks Opportunity

Social network X (previously known as Twitter) has launched a marketplace for usernames, where Premium+ subscribers can request names that are occupied by inactive accounts. The Premium+ subscription costs $40 per month or $395 per year. The marketplace offers two types of names: “priority” and “rare.” The company X defines “rare” names as “the most valuable,” often consisting of single words, slang, or a small number of characters. Among the potentially available options, according to the search, are @memelord, @phone, @gr0k, and @AIchat. The process for identifying and obtaining “rare” names isn’t entirely transparent. At X, it’s stated that names from the waiting list might be offered through a “public giveaway,” where users can apply to acquire them based on “merit.” Some highly sought-after names will be available for purchase by invitation at prices ranging from $2500 to seven-figure sums.

The marketplace’s launch comes amid ongoing discussions about the ethics and ownership of digital identities. Experts suggest that as social media’s role in personal and professional identity grows, such auctions could set precedents for how digital names are valued and exchanged in the future. Meanwhile, the market for usernames has attracted attention from digital identity experts who emphasize the importance of transparency and ethical considerations in allocating digital identities.

There are “priority” names available right now, such as @six_seven, @elonfarts, @grokfacts, and @kbchat. However, the platform is likely not to approve requests for @elonfarts or @grokfacts. Notably, users are given only one chance to request a “priority” name throughout the account’s existence. Strict rules exist for “maintaining” a username. Users must regularly create content, actively participate on the platform (replying, reposting, discussing topics), and log into the account from at least one device every 30 days. Otherwise, X may revoke the name.

X retains ownership rights over any name and can revoke it even if the user is actively using it. The company has a history of reclaiming names from users, including a noted incident with the username @X.