You now need a Facebook account to sign up for Messenger

iStock/Sushiman

Facebook Messenger will no longer be available for those who haven't signed up for an account on the social media network.

The social media giant confirmed to VentureBeat that new Messenger users will need a Facebook account to chat.

Their spokesperson explained that the decision was made as a "vast majority of people who use Messenger already log in through Facebook" and "to simplify the process".

It was in 2015 that Facebook started allowing people to sign up for its messaging service with just a phone number.

The network added that existing Messenger accounts that aren't tied to Facebook profiles won't need to make any changes, for now. 

More from Business News

News

  • Iranian nationals in UAE exempted from overstay fines

    Under the directives of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Iranian nationals currently in the UAE will be exempt from overstay fines caused by delays in leaving the country.

  • UAE ensures smooth airport operations amid airspace closures

    The UAE’s Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security has confirmed that all necessary measures are in place to ensure uninterrupted airport operations in response to recent regional developments and airspace closures in neighbouring countries.

  • UAE, Turkish Presidents discuss regional developments

    The UAE's President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdoğan have held a phone call to discuss the latest developments in the Middle East and ways to promote regional stability.