X has launched its anticipated handle redistribution marketplace for all Premium+ subscribers following a preview last month. This tool enables users to seek out previously inaccessible usernames tied to now-inactive accounts.
The platform categorizes handles into 'priority' and 'rare' varieties. Priority handles aim to let individuals claim usernames that better match their personal identity. However, the criteria distinguishing priority from rare remain opaque. Testing with a $40 monthly subscription revealed that @kbell and @karissa were labeled rare and unavailable, though users can express interest and provide a short rationale for their request.
X describes rare handles as the premium tier, typically short words, slang terms, or minimal-character strings. Search results highlighted potential future availabilities like @memelord, @phone, @gr0k, and @AIchat. Acquisition methods vary: watchlisted handles might enter a public release for free merit-based applications, while highly desirable ones could be offered via exclusive invitations at costs ranging from $2,500 to millions of dollars.
Exploration uncovered some amusing priority handle options currently open for claims, such as @six_seven, @elonfarts, @grokfacts, and @kbchat. While appealing, approvals for satirical ones like @elonfarts or @grokfacts seem unlikely. Users must note that Premium+ limits them to a single priority handle request per account lifetime.
Participation comes with stringent conditions beyond the $40 monthly or $395 annual Premium+ fee. Handle retention rules demand: regular content creation, as dormant posting could lead to reclamation; alignment with X's community engagement ethos through replies, reposts, and discussions to foster idea-sharing; and at least one device login every 30 days per the Inactive Account Policy.
The agreement emphasizes X's ownership and right to reclaim any handle, backed by past actions like seizing active usernames, notably @X. Despite these factors, no requests for spotted priority handles have been pursued yet. Sticking with a long-standing handle like @karissabe—merely two characters from a rare version of the name—avoids extra costs and maintains continuity over 16 years.