What are Display Names?

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IMVU has millions of users, and that means millions of usernames have already been taken. It is highly likely that the name you have now is not your first choice! This is primarily why many users resort to using nicknames for themselves. It would have been awkward to type a 15-character name over and over again in the chat box, if someone wants to call you out.

So why don't we make those nicknames official, with IMVU's Display Names?

Starting December of 2015, users of the IMVU Website as well as those on IMVU Mobile will be able to set a Display Name. Those who sign up using these services may also set a Display Name instead of a Full Name. IMVU will then assign a username based on the Display Name selected. This significantly eases the sign up process, allowing new users to have an automatically-selected name while still retaining a legible name people can refer to. You may also search for other users through their Display Names.

Will these Display Names be distinct from Premium Names/Registered Names?

Yes. Display names are not your usernames -- they are not used for logging in, and they are not the "official" identity of your accounts (those are still your usernames). Also, Premium Names and other Registered Names that have already been purchased cannot be used as Display Names. However, "semi-purchased" VIP names (those without "Guest_" because of an active VIP status) can still be used as Display Names.

How many characters can I use?

You may use anywhere from 1-30 characters.

Can I use special characters and spaces?

Yes, you may.

What cannot be used as Display Names?

Offensive words as well as names with leading and trailing spaces. Remember that these names can still be flagged. Also, note that multiple white spaces in the Display Name will be collapsed into only one white space when the name is saved.

Can two or more people have the same Display Names?

Yes. These names can also be changed at any time.

How do I find the person's Display Name?

On the avatar card, the top name is the Display Name. The user name is prefixed with "@".
 

How do I change my Display Name?

STEP 1. On the IMVU Website/IMVU Mobile, click on the avatar image on the upper-right corner of your page. On the dropdown, click on the Edit button to the right of your avatar name.

STEP 2. On the pop-up that appears, type in your preferred Display Name then click Save Changes. An error will appear if the name is no longer available. Otherwise, a check mark will appear.

Why am I not seeing display names on the IMVU Classic Website and IMVU Classic (IMVU Client)?

Those logging in via the IMVU Classic Website and IMVU Classic (IMVU Client) will not be able to see Display Names -- only the traditional avatar names will appear.