Microblog users who had not submitted real names could still put up posts on Beijing-based services yesterday, the deadline set last month banning users who fail to register real names and identity card numbers.
Internet users' tests found that existing users and some newly registered ones could still post on popular microblog services at Sina.com, sohu.com and 163.com, as well as Shenzhen-based Tencent.com, which was ordered to implement the real-name system in December.
Jason Ng, a Beijing-based blogger, said the move was likely to suffer the same fate as the content control software Green Dam Youth Escort, which officials wanted installed on all computers. It never happened.
'Microblog service providers might adopt a passive approach and they are apparently waiting to see what will happen,' Ng said.
The mainland has more than 300 million microblog users, more than half of its 517 million internet users, although many people have more than one account.
The guidelines said microblog users must provide real names and identity card numbers before posting or reposting online, with their nicknames being shown to others.
Analysts said authorities wanted to use the real-name registration system to better monitor and control public opinion, while using government microblog accounts to guide views. It would also make it easier for police to track people who posted 'unharmonious' content.