Facebook wants to squeeze as much growth as it can out of its popular Messenger app, even if that means foregoing Facebook.

While previously users had to sign up for Messenger with their Facebook accounts, now, in a few countries, it can be done with just a mobile telephone number. In the U.S., Canada, Peru and Venezuela, users who sign up this way can allow the app to sync with the contacts on their phone so they can easily find people to message.

Along with the phone number, the user’s name and photo are still needed to complete the sign-up process.

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