Telegram is a cross-platform instant messaging app launched in 2013. Since then, it has become one of the most popular communication platforms globally, boasting features unavailable on competitors like WhatsApp, iMessage, Viber, Line, or Signal. Telegram also offers a premium subscription unlocking enhanced capabilities. Furthermore, Telegram provides extensive interface customization options, including light and dark themes and customizable color schemes.
Profiles and Phone Numbers
While registration requires a phone number, Telegram allows communication via usernames, eliminating the need to share your phone number. Users can search by username using the app's built-in search or share their username to facilitate connection. Once added to contacts, users can engage in individual and group chats.
Individual and Group Chats
Groups accommodate hundreds of thousands of members, with customizable parameters such as administrator-only messaging or message sending intervals to manage message volume. Users can mute, disable notifications for, or archive chats for later review.
Security and Encryption
Telegram employs dual encryption methods. The default MTProto encryption secures all data traversing Telegram's servers, utilizing SHA-256 encryption and IND-CCA attack protection. Note that public channels and groups are publicly accessible. For enhanced security, secret chats offer end-to-end encryption, though access is limited to the originating device and cannot be accessed on other devices. Self-destructing messages are also available.
Unlimited Storage
All chat data is cloud-stored, enabling offline access and synchronization of photos, videos, and files. Files up to 2GB can be sent, with the option to send self-destructing files that prevent screenshots.
Calls, Video Calls, and Multimedia Messages
Beyond text messaging, Telegram supports VoIP and video calls, displaying emojis indicating call integrity. Users can send audio messages, short videos, photos, videos, GIFs, and files of various formats.
Bots and Channels
Telegram integrates bots and channels. Bots offer automated interactions, including AI bots and content download bots. Channels, managed by administrators, allow one-way content dissemination to numerous users, with optional comment functionality.
Stickers
Telegram pioneered chat stickers, offering animated stickers and large animated emojis. Most emojis have animated and full-size versions, with animations playing once upon opening the chat. Animated stickers loop continuously. Telegram provides a pre-selected sticker library, with expanded access through the premium subscription.
Premium Mode
To offset increasing maintenance costs, Telegram launched a premium subscription in 2022, offering features such as expanded message reactions, exclusive stickers, 4GB file uploads, faster downloads, audio-to-text conversion, ad removal, custom emojis, and real-time translation.
Download the Telegram APK and experience one of the market's leading encrypted instant messaging platforms.
Requirements (Latest Version)
Android 4.4 or higher required
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I change the language on Telegram? Go to Menu > Settings > Language.
- How do I hide my telephone number on Telegram? Go to Menu > Settings > Privacy and Security > Phone number to manage visibility settings.
- How do I schedule messages on Telegram? In the conversation, type your message, tap and hold the send button, select "Schedule message," and choose a send time.
- How do I add stickers on Telegram? Go to Menu > Settings > Stickers and Emojis, then tap "Show more stickers" to search.
- How can I access Telegram? Download the app or an official client, log in, and begin using the app.
- Is Telegram free? Yes, Telegram is free, with a paid version offering enhanced speed and features.
