Hi. I've finally caved into changing my long held username. I like the new one much better but the last known as thing is a bit unappealing.

 

Does anyone know the exact mechanics behind it being removed? I know it cannot be purely a matter of time because I've seen some people on my friends list who've had it for months while some got it removed quite quickly.

 

Does someone else have to take your old name? If someone doesn't, how long is the typical wait for it to go away?

It depends on how long u had the previous name.

 

The longer you had it the long it is saved for you.

As long as it is saved for you you have "last known as"

I must have had it for 8 years. Is there any way to accelerate the process? Thanks.

not really. it just goes away eventually.

I must have had it for 8 years. Is there any way to accelerate the process? Thanks.

 

There is a way to speed up the removal of the icon, but it will take a minimum of 3 months to do it.

 

Currently your name is: #newname (last known as #oldname)

 

1) Switch your name to: #newname2 (last known as #newname)

-28 days pass-

2) Switch back to: #newname (last known as #newname2)

 

The fact that #newname2 has only been held for 28 days means the icon will go away very quickly. It usually takes about 1-2 months after you do step #2 for the icon to vanish.

 

Original name icons can easily take up to 8 months or longer to vanish, depending on how long you have had the name. While the icon is unsightly, you can pick a funny name for your #newname2, so that your "last known as" can be at least interesting while you wait for it to vanish.

Thank you Katori, you have been extremely helpful. Cheers.