When setting up a Telegram account for the first time, the user's country and phone number are required. As a result, there is no option to create an account without a phone number. This requirement applies to both the mobile and desktop apps, as Telegram sends a code to the number to complete registration. Besides authentication, a phone number makes it possible for contacts who have the number stored on their device to message a user on the platform. Although Telegram has added the option to find contacts by username, this only works for those who have the feature set up.