YouTube discovers @ sign for personalized usernames

YouTube recently announced that the platform wants to put an @ sign in front of all usernames in the future. This is primarily intended to promote interaction on the platform. With the so-called handles, YouTube is doing the same as platforms like TikTok, Instagram and Twitter.

YouTube is taking another step in competing with other social media platforms. In an official blog post the company announced that it would introduce so-called handles with immediate effect. The company will put an @ sign in front of user names in the future.

YouTube handles apply to all areas of the platform

With the trade, users should be able to find other accounts more easily in order to be able to exchange ideas with them. The function applies to the entire platform. In addition to the main channel page, this also includes shorts in particular.

As on other platforms, users can also use @names to mention each other in comments, community posts, and video descriptions.

YouTube handles are designed to establish creator brands

Creators can also tag each other in shared videos. According to YouTube, this should help them to increase their visibility and reach.

Because the handles are so unique, unlike the channel name, video producers can further establish their own presence and brand, the platform explains.

Not all users receive @names at the same time

The roll-out of the new function is scheduled to take place during the month of October. Gradually, users should be able to receive or choose their personal @ name. Already personalized URLs automatically become the default handle.

However, account owners may still choose to change the handle for their channel. However, the process is also gradual, according to YouTube.

The timing of a creator’s access to the handle selection process depends on a number of factors, including overall YouTube exposure, number of subscribers, and whether the channel is active or inactive.

With the new handles, YouTube wants to ensure that users can develop an identity that is as unique as their content. At the same time, the @names should give viewers the certainty that they are interacting with their favorite creators.

YouTube handles as an adaptation to other platforms?

Although the feature is new to YouTube, it’s already standard on other platforms like Twitter and Instagram. With the introduction of the handles for YouTube Shorts, the video platform is meanwhile approaching TikTok in particular.

However, the new personalized names should not be the first step in leaving competing platforms behind. In September, for example, the video service introduced a new model for sharing advertising revenue. The company wants to transfer 45 percent of the advertising revenue from YouTube Shorts to the creators.

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