Twitter Name Change: Updating Your Handle & Display Name

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 QuraAI, 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, it doesn'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 a display name 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. 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.”

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.

7. 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.

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 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 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 **

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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