Google starts rolling out YouTube handles: How to get one, eligibility, what’s changing and what not – Times of India

Google recently announced that handles are coming to YouTube. YouTube Handles are unique identifiers that aim to help users find and connect to channels of their choice. Unlike a channel name, handles are unique and make it easy to confirm that they are engaging with the right person. Over the next few weeks, YouTube plans to slowly open access for all YouTube channels to choose a unique @handle. Content creators can choose their unique identifiers by November 14, after that Google will begin assigning handles automatically based on users’ channel name (which they can change). Here’s all about YouTube handles:
What are YouTube launching handles
Handles are a new unique identifier (example: @youtubecreators) and all YouTube channels will have one. Google says that as “handles are unique (unlike channel names), it’s easy to confirm if you’re engaging with the right person or not!”

This handle will also work as a unique channel URL (example: youtube.com/@youtubecreators). Previously, only creators with 100+ subs were eligible for a custom URL – but with this update, all channels will have a unique URL based on their handle. In the coming months, people will be able to use these handle across YouTube in comments, mentions, in Shorts & more.
Which channels are eligible for a handle
All YouTube channels will have a handle! In order to comment on YouTube, you need to create a YouTube channel—this means even if you primarily use YouTube to watch and comment, you will have a handle.
How do I choose a handle
Once users are notified (via email and in YouTube Studio) that it’s time to choose a handle, they can visit youtube.com/handle to choose their handle. If you don’t choose a handle by November 14, Google will begin assigning one based on your channel name. You’ll be able to edit your handle from youtube.com/handle if you want to change it.
Will existing URLs continue to work
The existing URLs will continue to work, but they will redirect users to the new handle URL.
When can I choose a handle
This is what Google says, “Since we have billions of channels on YouTube, we can’t flip a switch and have everyone choose a handle at the same time. Because handles must be unique and every channel on YouTube will have one, we’re rolling them out gradually. The timing of when a creator will get access to the handles selection process depends on a number of factors, including overall YouTube presence, subscriber count and whether the channel is active or inactive. Everyone will have the option to choose a handle by November 14 at the latest.”
Will I lose my verification badge if I change my handle?
No, your verification badge will not be removed when you choose a handle or if you change your handle. However, if you change your channel name, your verification badge will be removed and you will have to reapply. This is to help avoid impersonation.
What are all the places where this handle will appear
We’re rolling out handles gradually to all channels over the next few weeks. Once it has been rolled out to all channels, your handle will begin appearing in a few places across YouTube (and more over time), including the Shorts player, Search results, your channel page, within comments and mentions, and more.