During its initial days, Google+ had created quite a negative buzz with its draconian 'real name' policy. Google+ users are not allowed to
use nicknames or pseudonyms and were required to use their real names. Google implemented this policy with heavy hand and deleted some high profile Google+ pages with pseudonyms. Later, it softened the policy for business pages, but now it is going to do complete roundabout on its previous policy and let its users have nicknames and pseudonyms attached to their profiles.
Google also downplayed its controversial naming policy. Google's VP of Product Bradley Horowitz said that only about 0.1 percent of Google+ users had issues with its initial policy. Out of these people, 60 percent wanted the ability to add nicknames, while 20 percent were interested in using pseudonyms. Remaining 20 percent were interested in setting up profile page for their businesses.
Google will be rolling out the new functionality starting this week. It will support names in non-roman languages, nick names and maiden names. It will also let you add an alternate name. All you have to do is to click 'edit profile' tab, select your name and click 'more options'. In certain cases you may be required to establish your identity via official documents such as driving license or online presence.