X launches Handle Marketplace, letting users secure inactive usernames

Back in November 2023, rumours started circulating that X was developing a new feature called the Handle Marketplace, a platform where users could buy or claim usernames. Now the dedicated site handles.x.com has now gone live. However, the feature itself hasn’t launched yet and currently shows a “Coming Soon” message.

As per the site, access to the Handle Marketplace will be limited to Premium+ subscribers, priced at $40 per month. Eligible Premium+ subscribers will be able to search for and request handles, with both complimentary and paid options available once the feature goes live.

Handles are coming…

Join the waitlist at https://t.co/78v6LhGZiz pic.twitter.com/XOa9b2lfkN

— Handle Marketplace (@XHandles) October 19, 2025

According to X, Premium+ users will have the ability to request or search for inactive handles, as long as those handles are no longer actively used on the platform. However, there is an important condition that if a subscriber cancels their Premium+ plan, the claimed handle will be revoked and returned to its previous user.

The Handle Marketplace will reportedly feature two types of handles, Rare Drops and Priority Handles.

• Rare Handle Drops will offer Premium+ users the opportunity to apply for inactive or exclusive handles that align with their identity or influence on X. These will be merit based rather than transactional, with eligibility determined by factors like reach, engagement, and authenticity.
• Priority Handles will be available to Premium+ subscribers at no additional cost. Requests may take up to 72 hours to process, and not all submissions will be approved. If a user downgrades or cancels their Premium+ plan, their previous handle will be reinstated.

After a handle transfer, the previous username will be reserved and unavailable to others. All profile content and activity will remain unaffected by the change.

While the Handle Marketplace isn’t functional yet, users can join the waitlist through handles.x.com. The webpage also mentions the Premium Business subscription, suggesting that the feature might already be available, or at least partially accessible, to Premium Business subscribers before its wider rollout. There is currently no information on when the feature will officially launch, but it is expected to be announced in the coming days.