X Launches Handle Marketplace For Premium Subscribers

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X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, has announced it will soon launch a marketplace allowing premium subscribers to acquire inactive usernames. This new feature is designed to create a new revenue stream while providing a long-requested service for brands and individuals seeking specific handles.

The New Handle Marketplace Explained

The marketplace will be exclusively available to subscribers of X’s Premium Plus and Premium Business tiers. These users will gain the ability to browse, search for, and request usernames that are currently inactive on the platform. The move aims to incentivize more users to sign up for X’s paid subscription plans by offering a high-value perk.

Priority vs Rare Handles

The available handles will be segmented into two distinct categories. Priority handles will be offered for free and are described as typically including full names, multi-word phrases, or alphanumeric combinations. In contrast, rare handles will be sold at a premium. These are unique, highly sought-after usernames, with prices starting at US$2,500 and potentially reaching seven-figure sums depending on the demand and uniqueness of the handle.

A New Revenue Stream Tied to Subscriptions

This initiative is not a one-time sale but is intrinsically linked to a user’s subscription status. When a subscriber successfully obtains a new handle, their previous username will be frozen. More importantly, if a user downgrades their premium subscription, they will lose access to the purchased handle and their account will revert to its original username. The company is also exploring a paid redirect feature as a future add-on.

Implications for the MENA Region

For the MENA tech ecosystem, this development presents both opportunities and challenges. Regional startups and established brands now have a potential, albeit costly, avenue to secure their desired brand name if it’s currently held by an inactive account. This could be particularly valuable for companies in competitive markets like the UAE and Saudi Arabia looking to solidify their digital identity. Furthermore, prominent creators and influencers in the region may view the purchase of a rare handle as a strategic investment in their personal brand. However, the high price point for premium handles could be a significant barrier for early-stage startups, while representing a justifiable marketing expense for larger, well-funded enterprises.

About X

X is a global social media and microblogging service where users post and interact with messages known as “posts.” Formerly known as Twitter, the platform serves as a real-time information network and a hub for public conversation on a wide range of topics, from breaking news and entertainment to sports and politics.

Source: The Verge

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