Telegram, the popular messaging app, is about to get even more exciting with a fresh lineup of innovative features.
Pavel Durov, Telegram’s founder and CEO, recently announced a wave of new updates designed to enhance user experience and support app developers.
With over 950 million active users and 10 million paying subscribers on Telegram Premium, these changes couldn’t have come at a better time.
Durov is focused on both improving the platform’s functionality and addressing issues related to illicit activities. Here’s a look at some of the exciting new features that are shaping Telegram’s future.
New Tools for Developers: Boosting Mini-App Potential
One of the standout announcements is a set of 10 new features for developers of “mini-apps” on Telegram. These updates will enable developers to create new apps and games within the platform, expanding its versatility.
Some of these features include shortcuts on the home screen, increased message-sending limits, and the ability to send media files. For users, these additions mean more fun and interactive options right within Telegram.
Developers will also gain access to subscription plans, geolocation, and emoji statuses, which are expected to enrich the mini-app ecosystem.
The goal is to foster a thriving community of developers who can build creative solutions that keep Telegram dynamic and engaging.
With these tools, Telegram is aiming to attract new users while retaining current ones, a crucial move as competition in the messaging app market intensifies.
Moderation Measures: A Focus on Safety
Another significant change is Telegram’s focus on moderation. Durov has made it clear that while the vast majority of Telegram users engage responsibly, a small percentage has given the app a negative image by using it for illegal activities.
Following his release from French custody, where he faced allegations of enabling illicit content on Telegram, Durov is taking decisive steps to tighten controls.
One of these measures includes replacing the “People Nearby” feature with “Businesses Nearby,” a tool that will allow users to find legitimate, verified businesses in their area.
This shift aims to eliminate issues with bots and scammers while offering a more practical alternative for users.
Additionally, Telegram is removing the option to upload images or videos on Telegraph, a blogging tool, as it has reportedly been misused by anonymous users.
These moderation measures signal Telegram’s commitment to creating a safe and trustworthy platform.
By addressing these issues head-on, Durov hopes to transform Telegram’s image from an “area of criticism into one of praise.”
Exciting User Features: Gifts, Hashtags, and Media Editing
Beyond the developer tools and moderation efforts, Telegram is also rolling out features that are directly aimed at enhancing user experience.
For example, Durov announced improvements to gifts, making it easier for users to celebrate special moments with loved ones.
The app now includes five new gift-related features, allowing for more personalized and thoughtful interactions.
Another update will improve how hashtags work within the app, making it simpler for users to follow trends and navigate conversations.
Users will also gain the ability to add media to a message after it’s been sent, making Telegram even more user-friendly.
And for those who want to keep track of message edits, the app will now display the time a message was edited, adding a layer of transparency to chats.
These updates highlight Telegram’s ongoing commitment to innovation. According to Durov, the app’s team is quick to bring ideas to life, sometimes within a single day, a testament to their efficiency and dedication.
He credits this speed with helping Telegram set trends that many other messaging apps follow today.
Looking Ahead: Will Telegram’s New Strategy Pay Off?
With these updates, Telegram is positioning itself as more than just a messaging app. The introduction of developer tools, moderation features, and user-centric updates demonstrates a clear intention to lead in both functionality and user trust.
The question is, will these changes resonate with the platform’s vast audience and attract new users?
For Telegram, 2024 could be a turning point. If the new features take off, it could set a new standard for messaging apps by balancing innovation with responsibility.
As Durov and his team continue to push boundaries, users and developers alike can look forward to a richer and safer experience on Telegram.
Whether you’re a longtime user or a newcomer, these updates are sure to make Telegram an even more dynamic platform for connecting and creating.