Introduction
Are you finally ready to say goodbye to the blue bird app? Whether you are concerned about privacy, tired of the algorithm changes, or just need a digital detox, figuring out how to delete Twitter account (now known as X) is a common goal for many users in 2025.
However, the process isn’t as straightforward as finding a big red “Delete” button. X (formerly Twitter) requires you to go through a specific “deactivation” phase first.
In this guide, we will walk you through the exact steps to permanently delete your account on both desktop and mobile. We will also cover how to save your data before you leave, ensuring you don’t lose years of memories.
Important: Read This Before You Delete
Before we jump into the settings, you need to understand the difference between deactivating and deleting.
- Deactivation: This is the first step. Your account disappears from the public view immediately. Your photos, tweets (posts), and profile are hidden. However, your data still exists on X’s servers.
- Deletion: This happens automatically 30 days after deactivation. If you do not log back in during this 30-day window, X will permanently erase your account.
Pro Tip: If you want to use your current username or email address on a new Twitter account in the future, change them in your Account Information settings before you deactivate. Otherwise, they will be locked for 30 days.
Step 1: Backup Your Data (Don’t Skip This!)
Once you delete your account, your data is gone forever. If you have years of posts, bookmarks, or messages you want to keep, you should download your archive first.
- Go to Settings and Support > Settings and privacy.
- Select Your account > Download an archive of your data.
- You will need to enter your password and verify your identity via email or text.
- Click Request archive.
- Note: This can take 24 hours or longer. X will email you when the file is ready.
How to Delete Twitter Account on Android or iOS App
Most of us use X on our smartphones. Here is the quickest way to shut down your account using the mobile app.
- Open the X app on your iPhone or Android.
- Tap your Profile Icon in the top-left corner.
- Expand the Settings & Support menu at the bottom.
- Tap on Settings and privacy.
- Select Your account (usually the first option).
- Tap Deactivate your account.
- Read the disclaimer, then tap the red Deactivate button at the bottom.
- Enter your password to confirm and tap Deactivate one last time.
How to Delete Twitter Account on Desktop (PC/Mac)
If you prefer using a computer, the process is slightly different but equally simple.
- Log in to X.com.
- Click on More (the three-dot icon) in the left-hand sidebar.
- Select Settings and privacy.
- Under the Your account tab, look for Deactivate your account on the right side.
- Select a reactivation period (usually 30 days).
- Click the red Deactivate button.
- Enter your password to verify your identity.
- Click Deactivate account to finish.
[Insert Screenshot Here: Image of the ‘Deactivate your account’ menu on desktop for visual clarity]
How to Make the Deletion Permanent
This is the part that confuses many users.
Once you have finished the steps above, do not log in to your account.
If you log into X (or any third-party app linked to your Twitter account) within the 30-day grace period, your account will be instantly reactivated, and the deletion process will be canceled. To ensure it is deleted permanently:
- Remove the X app from your phone.
- Clear your browser cache/saved passwords for X.com.
- Wait the full 30 days.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I delete my Twitter account instantly?
A: No. X does not allow instant deletion. You must deactivate the account first and wait out the 30-day period without logging in.
Q: Will my Direct Messages (DMs) be deleted?
A: Yes. Once the permanent deletion happens, all your sent and received messages are removed. However, messages you sent to others may still be visible in their inbox until they delete them.
Q: How do I recover my account if I change my mind?
A: Simply log in with your username and password within the 30-day window. You will be asked if you want to reactivate—just click “Yes.”
Q: Why is my account still visible on Google?
A: Even after deletion, Google may cache your profile for a few weeks. You can use the Google Search Console Remove Outdated Content tool to speed up the process.
Conclusion
Knowing how to delete Twitter account properly ensures your data is wiped clean and you can move on to other platforms without leaving a digital footprint behind. Remember, the key is patience—hit that deactivate button and resist the urge to check back in for 30 days.
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