How to Change Your Twitter Handle: 2026 Ultimate Guide
How to Change Twitter/X Display Name 2026 – Complete Guide
Update the name people see next to your profile picture. Works on web, iPhone & Android. Tested Jan 30, 2026 — perfect before going private or deleting tweets.
Profile → Edit profile → Update Name field → Save.
Changes instantly, unlimited times. Different from @username (30-day limit).
Display Name vs Username (@handle)
| Type | What It Is | Can Change? | Character Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Display Name | Name people see | Yes, anytime | 50 characters |
| Username (@handle) | Your @ address | Yes, once every 30 days | 15 characters |
Display name shows on your profile. Username stays in mentions and URLs.
Change Display Name on Web (30 Seconds)
Log into x.com:
- Click your profile picture (top right)
- Select Profile
- Click Edit profile
- Type new name in Name field
- Click Save
Changes appear instantly.
Change Display Name on iPhone App
Open X app:
- Tap profile icon (top left)
- Tap Profile
- Tap Edit profile
- Enter new name
- Tap Save (top right)
Change Display Name on Android App
In the X app:
- Profile picture → Profile → Edit profile
- Update Name field
- Save
Name Rules and Limits
- 50 characters maximum
- Emojis allowed
- Numbers and symbols OK
- No @ symbols in display name
- Changes show everywhere instantly
When to Change Your Name
| Situation | Good Time to Change |
|---|---|
| New job | Update to professional name |
| Rebrand | Match new business name |
| Personal | Use nickname or full name |
| Privacy | Remove personal details |
Change Username (@handle) Too?
Different process. Go to Settings → Your account → Account information. Enter password, then edit Username field. Wait 30 days between changes.
Quick Name Update Checklist
| Step | Done? | Time Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Update display name | ☐ | 30 sec |
| Check profile picture | ☐ | 1 min |
| Review bio | ☐ | 2 min |
| Test mentions | ☐ | 1 min |
After Name Changes
Your old name might still show in searches for a few days. New name works everywhere immediately.
Need more privacy after this? Try account security steps or export your data before bigger changes.
Common Questions
Will mentions break?
No. People still find you via @username.
Can I use my real name?
Yes. Or brand name, nickname, anything.
How often can I change?
Unlimited for display name. Username limited to once per 30 days.
Does it affect search?
Helps people find your profile.