Google Rolls Back Controversial 'Real Name' Requirement

The aggressive integration of Google+ and "real names" across Google platforms made users unhappy across the board.

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Since Google+ went live three years ago, Google has pursued aggressive integration. However, the “real name” requirement didn’t go over well, and when it reached YouTube, it had some pretty disastrous results. Google recently rolled back this policy decision, and now users can call themselves whatever they want.

This decision was likely prompted by the re-authorization of pseudonyms on YouTube, a platform frequented by some of the most vocal users on any of Google’s services. Google+ was quick to follow, and now any user can choose any name they like, according to an official post from Google+ staff.

“We apologize, and we hope that today’s change is a step toward making Google+ the welcoming and inclusive place that we want it to be.

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