Mixi was the first online social networking site in Japan, launching in 2004. It allowed anonymous profiles with users registering using their phone numbers and being at least 15 years old. Facebook later launched in Japan in 2008, requiring real names. This appealed more to Japanese users, giving a perception of more authentic information. During disasters like the 2011 earthquake, real names helped organize relief efforts. Overall, Facebook surpassed Mixi as it allowed users to connect internationally as well as on a more personal level through verified identities.