YouTube Handles are here. If you’re a creator on YouTube, you’ve likely received an email that looks like the text below:

Hi YouTubeTorials,

You can now choose your channel’s handle.

As a reminder, in most cases, if you already have a personalized URL for your channel, we’ve reserved this for you as your handle. If you’re happy with that handle then you’re all set. If you want a different handle from the one we reserved, you can change it. If you don’t already have a personalized URL today, you’ll also be able to choose a handle. Keep in mind that handles are unique to each channel, so once a handle has been chosen, it can’t be selected by anyone else.

That’s great news and every other platform has this already. Why? Because it makes channels easier to find.

YouTube lets multiple channels have the same name which makes it harder to find your channel.

Also there are a lot of fake channels trying to get you to watch their channel or buy their product using someone else’s influence.

So using handles will help in both areas.

What are YouTube handles?

Quote from YouTube: “A handle is a new way for people to find you and connect with you. Unlike channel names, handles are unique to each creator, making it easier for you to establish a distinct presence on YouTube.”

So it helps your audience be able to find you easier especially if you are a smaller channel.

Everybody will be able to choose their own handle soon. They’ll notify you when you can choose yours if you are able to choose one at this point in time.

“We’re gradually rolling out the ability to choose a handle for all channels over the coming weeks, and you will receive another email and a notification in YouTube Studio when you’re able to choose yours.”

How do I change my YouTube handle name?

In order to change your YouTube handle, sign in to YouTube from a web browser. Next, type in youtube.com/handles.

From here you’ll have the option to use a name YouTube has selected for you or choose something different.

What happens to YouTube channel URLs?

In most cases, if you already have a personalized URL for your channel, they’ve reserved this for you as your handle. If you want a different handle, you can change it.

If you don’t already have a personalized URL, you’ll be able to choose a handle for your channel.

If you do already have a personalized URL, it will still continue to work. So you’ll have both.

What do you think of handles coming to YouTube? Leave a comment and let me know.