How to Change Twitter Display Name: Updating Your Handle & Display Name

Learn how to update your Twitter handle and display name easily! Our step-by-step guide helps you change your username, avoid errors, and maintain your brand or identity on Twitter.

Twitter (now X) is one of the largest social media platforms, and it's constantly changing with the addition of more features.

You might find yourself needing to update your username and display name to better align with your current identity or objectives.

Fortunately, X makes it easy to adjust these elements, reflecting the platform's understanding of the dynamic nature of online personas.

This guide, powered by Qura, the leading AI-driven social media assistant, will walk you through the process of updating your Twitter handle and display name.

If you're rebranding, seeking a new look, or simply refreshing your profile, you'll find practical and straightforward advice to help you manage your Twitter identity seamlessly in 2024.

TL: DR

1. Handle vs. Display Name: Your Twitter handle (username) is unique and used for mentions, while your display name can be customised freely and doesn't need to be unique.

2. Changing Your Handle: You can change your Twitter handle on both your mobile device and desktop devices by accessing account settings and following the guidelines for handle length and character use.

3. Choosing a New Handle: Pick a handle that aligns with your brand, avoids numbers and special characters, is easy to remember, and is available across social platforms.

4. If Your Desired Handle Is Taken: Try variations, check availability, report impersonators, or contact the current user if the account is inactive.

5. Reasons to Update Your Handle: Consider changing your handle for rebranding, simplification, or to reflect business changes like mergers or ownership transitions.

Table of Content

• What Is a Twitter Username or Handle?

• What is a Twitter/X Display Name?

• Twitter Username or Handle vs Twitter Display Name: What's the Difference?

• Can You Change Your X Username?

• How to Change Your Twitter Username on Android & IOS

• How to Change Your Handle from Desktop Devices

• 5 Tips for Choosing a New Username For Your Twitter Account

• What to Do If Your Desired Twitter Handle Is Taken

• Why Should You Change Your Twitter Handle?

• FAQs

How Frequently Can You Make a Twitter Name Change?

Can Two People Have the Same Twitter Handle?

Can I Use an Old Twitter Name on the Same Account?

Why Can't I Change My Twitter Handle?

Is a Twitter Handle Permanent?

What Is a Twitter Username or Handle?

A Twitter username, or handle, is your unique identifier on the platform. It appears after the "@" symbol for mentions, tags, and direct messages. It also forms part of your profile URL.

Handles must be between 4 to 15 characters and include only letters, numbers, or underscores. Choosing a concise, clear handle helps improve visibility and makes your account easier to find.

What Is a Twitter/X Display Name?

Your Twitter display name is a customisable identifier on your profile and in tweets.

Unlike your handle, display names don’t need to be unique and can be changed freely to reflect your personality or brand.

Changing your display name on Twitter also won’t affect your @username or how people tag or message you, making it easy to update your public-facing identity.

Twitter Username or Handle vs Twitter Display Name: What's the Difference?

The key difference between a Twitter handle and display names is their function.

Your display name, also known simply as your “name,” is used as a personal identifier, while your handle (the @username) is used for logging in, being tagged in tweets, and receiving direct messages.

It’s worth noting that changing your display name won’t affect your handle—your @username will stay the same.

Your display name allows you to customize your profile and can be updated anytime to reflect your current identity or brand.

Is It Possible to Change Your Twitter Username?

Yes, it's possible. Your Twitter username, also known as your handle, is one of the key identifiers for your account.

It's not only a unique way for people to find old usernames and follow you on X (formerly Twitter), but it's also part of your login credentials. This handle appears after the “@” symbol on your profile.

Because of its significance, most users carefully choose their username.

However, it's common to rethink your choice over time, especially if you're rebranding or updating your online presence.

Thankfully, Twitter allows you to change your username anytime, as long as you follow their specific guidelines.

But first, here are some important rules for changing your username:

1. Your username must be between 4 to 15 characters.

2. It can only include letters, numbers, and underscores—no other symbols.

3. It can't have any spaces.

4. You can't choose a handle that another user already takes.

Now, let's get started on how to change your Twitter handle.

Below, we'll walk you through how to update your handle on X.

How to Change Your Twitter Username on Android & IOS

1. Go to your X/Twitter settings and privacy.

2. Click "Account" at the top left corner of the menu.

3. Tap "Username."

4. The next page will show your current Twitter handle and a space to write your new handle. Type in the handle you want in the space provided.

5. Twitter will let you know when you have an acceptable handle (one that fits its criteria and isn't taken by another account).

6. When you're ready, tap "Done.”

How to Change Your Twitter/X Display Name on Android & IOS

Here’s how to change your Twitter display name:

1. Go to your profile page.

2. Click on the profile icon “Edit Profile” in the top right.

3. Find where it says “Name” at the top and type in the same display name that you want.

4. Tap “Save.”

Display names can be changed as often as you like, allowing you to keep your profile up-to-date with your current identity or brand.

How to Change Your Twitter Handle from a Desktop Device

If you prefer using a desktop to manage your Twitter account, follow these steps to change your username:

1. Open the Twitter app: Go to the Twitter website on your desktop.

2. Access Settings: Click the “More” button on the left side of the profile button on the screen.

3. Navigate to Settings: Select “Settings and Support” and then “Settings and Privacy.”

4. Go to Account Information: Click the “Account information” section.

5. Verify Your Identity: Enter your password to confirm your identity.

6. Update Username: Click the “Username” section, type in your new username, or choose

one of the suggestions.

1. Save Changes: Click the “Save” button to update your handle.

This process will update your Twitter handle on your mobile user's desktop device while ensuring your account information remains secure.

Adding Emojis to Your Twitter Display Name

Adding emojis to your Twitter display name can be a fun and creative way to personalize your profile and make it stand out on the social media platform. Emojis can add a touch of personality, making your display name more engaging and visually appealing. However, it’s essential to choose the right emojis to avoid compatibility issues across different devices and platforms.

When selecting emojis for your Twitter display name, consider the following tips:

1. Relevance: Choose emojis that are relevant to your brand or personality. For example, if you’re a food blogger, you might use food-related emojis.

2. Simplicity: Avoid using too many emojis, as this can make your display name look cluttered. One or two well-chosen emojis can be more effective.

3. Compatibility: Test your chosen emojis on different devices to ensure they display correctly. Some emojis may not render properly on all platforms.

By thoughtfully incorporating emojis into your Twitter display name, you can create a unique and memorable profile that captures attention.

5 Best Tips for Choosing a New Username for Your Twitter Account

Before you change your Twitter username, it's essential to plan carefully. This ensures that both your current and potential followers can easily recognise your new handle and find your profile.

Here are five key tips to help you choose a new Twitter username:

1. Align Your Username with Your Brand Identity

When picking a new Twitter handle, think about what defines your brand. A handle that reflects your brand identity makes it easier for people to recognise and connect your account with your business.

Your handle becomes a crucial part of your online presence and strengthens brand recall.

To enhance this, keep your official Twitter bio on-brand as well. Consistency in your handle, bio, and messaging reinforces your brand's values and makes it more memorable.

2. Avoid Numbers and Special Characters

Using numbers or special characters in your Twitter handle can make it look less professional or generic. This can impact how people perceive your brand, giving it a less polished feel.

Instead, go for a simple, clean handle that reflects credibility. A straightforward handle is more likely to align with your brand and leave a strong impression.

3. Keep Your Twitter Handle Short

Shorter handles are generally easier to remember and type, making them more user-friendly.

A concise handle increases the chances of people finding your account quickly when they search or mention you in tweets.

Additionally, a shorter handle helps you stay within the character limits for mentions and tags, improving your overall engagement.

4. Ensure Your Desired Handle is Available

Consistency is key when building your online presence. If the handle you want is already taken, it can confuse your audience and make it harder for them to find your brand.

Before committing to a new username, check that it's available across all the social networks you use.

A unique, consistent handle across platforms helps establish a cohesive and recognizable brand identity.

5. Promote Your New Twitter Handle on Other Social Media Platforms

After changing your Twitter username on your account page, make sure to promote it across your other social media channels. This will help increase awareness and ensure your followers know about the update.

Since many of your audience members may follow you on multiple platforms, sharing your new handle ensures they stay connected and can continue to engage with your content.

What to Do If Your Desired Twitter Handle Is Taken

If you find that your preferred Twitter handle is already in use, there are several steps you can take to secure a suitable alternative:

1. Modify the Handle

Try variations of your desired username by adding underscores, abbreviations, or relevant keywords. Ensure the new handle remains recognizable and aligns with your personal or brand identity.

2. Search for Alternatives

If you’re having trouble finding the perfect emoji for your Twitter display name, don’t worry—there are plenty of resources available to help you find the right one. Online tools like Emojipedia and Emoji Dictionary offer extensive libraries of emojis, complete with descriptions and usage examples.

Here are some steps to find the perfect emoji:

1. Visit Emoji Resources: Go to websites like Emojipedia or Emoji Dictionary.

2. Search by Keyword: Use keywords related to your brand or personality to find relevant emojis.

3. Test Emojis: Copy and paste the emojis into your Twitter display name to see how they look.

By exploring these resources, you can find the ideal emoji that represents your brand or personality, enhancing your Twitter display name.

**2. Search on Twitter **

Check the availability of your desired handle by searching it on Twitter. If it's free, claim it immediately by clicking “Update” on the edit profile button in your account settings.

3. Address Imposters

If the handle is taken by someone impersonating you or your business, report the account to Twitter.

Go to their profile, select “Report,” and explain that the account is falsely representing you or your brand.

4. Contact the Current User

If the Twitter handle you want is already taken, you might consider reaching out to the current user to see if they’re willing to give it up. While this approach can be a long shot, it’s worth trying if you’re set on a specific handle.

Here’s how to go about it:

1. Find the User: Search for the handle on Twitter to locate the current user.

2. Send a Polite Message: Politely ask if they would be willing to change their handle. Explain why you want it and offer a reasonable incentive if appropriate.

3. Be Patient: Give the user some time to respond. Not everyone checks their messages regularly.

While this method doesn’t guarantee success, it can sometimes result in securing the desired Twitter handle, especially if the current user is inactive or open to negotiation.

**4. Contact the Current User **

If an inactive account uses the handle, consider reaching out to the user directly. Politely ask if they might be willing to change their handle so you can use it.

5. Consider Verification

If your business is well-known or at risk of impersonation, seek verification. A verified account, marked with a blue checkmark, helps establish your authenticity and makes it easier for users to recognize your genuine profile photo.

Why Should You Change Your Twitter Handle?

Your Twitter handle is more significant than you might think. It's the primary way people mention you or search for your profile and also helps confirm that your account is legitimate.

Here are three key reasons to consider changing your Twitter handle:

1. Rebranding and Brand Consistency

Rebranding and maintaining brand consistency are crucial for any business or individual looking to establish a strong online presence. Changing your Twitter handle can be a vital step in rebranding your business, especially if you’re updating your brand identity or targeting a new audience.

Here’s why you should consider changing your Twitter handle for rebranding:

1. Reflect New Identity: A new handle can better represent your updated brand identity, making it easier for your audience to recognize and connect with your brand.

2. Consistency Across Platforms: Ensure your new handle is consistent across all social media platforms to strengthen brand recall and make it easier for followers to find you.

3. Professionalism: A well-chosen handle that aligns with your brand can enhance your professional image and credibility.

By updating your Twitter handle to reflect your rebranding efforts, you can maintain a cohesive and professional online presence.

2. Streamlining and Simplification

Streamlining and simplifying your Twitter handle can significantly enhance brand recall and make it easier for customers to find you. If your current handle is complex or hard to remember, changing it to a simpler, more intuitive handle can be beneficial.

Here are the benefits of a simplified Twitter handle:

1. Ease of Recall: A straightforward handle is easier for users to remember and type, increasing the likelihood of them finding and mentioning you.

2. Professional Appearance: A clean, simple handle looks more professional and credible, positively impacting how your brand is perceived.

3. Improved Engagement: A shorter handle helps you stay within character limits for mentions and tags, facilitating better engagement with your audience.

By streamlining your Twitter handle, you can create a more memorable and accessible online presence, making it easier for users to connect with your brand.

**1. Rebranding and Brand Consistency **

As businesses evolve, a rebranding effort often requires updating your Twitter handle to reflect new missions, visions, or target markets.

A new handle helps maintain consistency across all digital platforms and aligns with your updated brand identity.

**2. Streamlining and Simplification **

If your current handle is complex or hard for customers to remember, changing it to a simpler, more intuitive handle can enhance brand recall.

A straightforward handle makes it easier for users to find and engage with your page.

3. Mergers, Acquisitions, or Ownership Changes

When businesses undergo mergers, acquisitions, or changes in ownership, updating the Twitter handle can reflect the new corporate structure.

This helps prevent confusion among customers and stakeholders by aligning the handle with the new business identity.

FAQs

**1. How Frequently Can You Change Your Twitter Name? **

You can change your change Twitter display name as often as you like. Unlike your Twitter handle, which has more restrictions, your display name is highly flexible and can be updated whenever you wish.

**2. Can Two People Have the Same X/Twitter Handle? **

No, Twitter handles must be unique. Each handle is associated with a single account, so no two people can have multiple users with the same username.

**3. Can I Use an Old Twitter Name on the Same Account? **

You can revert to a previous Twitter name if it is still available. If someone else is using it, however, you won't be able to reclaim it until it's free.

**4. Why Can't I Change My Twitter Handle? **

If you can't change your Twitter handle, it could be because it's already in use, doesn't meet Twitter's character or format guidelines, or has restrictions placed on your account. Ensure your desired handle follows Twitter's rules and check for availability.

**5. Is a Twitter Handle Permanent? **

A Twitter handle is not permanent. You can change it anytime, provided the new handle is available and complies with Twitter's guidelines.

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