How to Change Your Username and Display Name on Twitter from Any Device

Published On - April 15, 2025

ivan Blogging

Changing a username or display name on Twitter is a simple yet essential step for users who wish to rebrand, update their identity, or personalize their profile. Whether you’re managing your account on a desktop, Android, or iOS device, the platform provides intuitive tools to make these changes with ease. Updating either of these elements can help maintain a consistent online presence or reflect important life or business changes.

Understanding the Difference Between Username and Display Name

Before diving into the steps, it’s important to clarify the difference between a username and a display name:

  • Username (@handle): This is your unique identifier on Twitter. It appears in your profile URL and is used in mentions and replies.
  • Display Name: This is the name that appears on your profile and is visible above your tweets. It doesn’t need to be unique.

How to Change Your Username on Twitter

On Desktop

  1. Log in to twitter.com.
  2. Click on More from the left-hand menu.
  3. Select Settings and privacy.
  4. Click Your account and then Account information.
  5. Enter your password if prompted.
  6. Click Username and type your desired username in the field.
  7. If available, click Save to apply the changes.

On Mobile (Android & iOS)

  1. Open the Twitter app and log in if not already logged in.
  2. Tap your profile picture in the top-left corner to open the menu.
  3. Go to Settings and Support > Settings and privacy.
  4. Tap Your account and then Account information.
  5. Tap Username and enter a new username.
  6. If the new username is available, tap Done.

Twitter will notify you if the selected username is already taken. If so, you’ll need to try a different variation.

How to Change Your Display Name on Twitter

On Desktop

  1. Go to twitter.com and log in.
  2. Click on your profile icon on the left navigation and go to your profile.
  3. Click the Edit Profile button.
  4. Type a new display name in the Name field.
  5. Click Save to confirm changes.

On Mobile (Android & iOS)

  1. Launch the Twitter app and tap your profile picture to open your profile.
  2. Tap the Edit Profile button.
  3. Enter a new display name in the Name field.
  4. Tap Save or Done in the top-right corner.

Things to Keep in Mind

  • Changing your username won’t affect your followers, messages, or replies.
  • Your new username must be between 4–15 characters long and can only contain letters, numbers, and underscores.
  • Your display name can be up to 50 characters and can include emojis or special characters.
  • If you’re verified, changing your username may affect your verification status.

FAQs

Can I change my Twitter username and display name as often as I want?
Yes, Twitter allows users to change both their username and display name at any time without restrictions.
Will changing my username affect my followers?
No, your followers remain the same even after changing your username. They will see your tweets under the new @handle.
What happens to mentions of my old username?
Mentions directed at your old username will no longer lead to your profile once you’ve changed it. Inform your followers of the update to avoid confusion.
Can someone else claim my old username after I change it?
Yes, once you give up your old username, it becomes available to other users unless Twitter reserves it for specific reasons.
What should I do if the username I want is taken?
Try slight variations, such as using underscores, numbers, or adding ‘official’ or your location to the name.