How to start a secure group call in Telegram without creating a group

Telegram’s May update introduces a new feature: users can now launch group calls without having to create a group chat.

This guide walks you through how to start a call, invite others via link, and what makes this new call method unique.

What’s new in Telegram group calls?

Thanks to the updated interface, users can now start end-to-end encrypted group calls with multiple participants — no group chat required. Previously, such calls required creating a separate chat with all participants.

You can instantly add up to 200 people to an active call using either a link or a QR code. Another key benefit: anyone in the call can enable their camera or share their screen.

Group calls are protected by end-to-end encryption. Security is verified through a set of four emoji that must match across all participants’ screens. Telegram states that even the company itself cannot secretly join the call.

How to start a group call in Telegram

Method 1: Create a new call

Step 1 (iOS only): Make sure the “Calls” tab is enabled. Go to Settings → Recent Calls → Show Calls Tab.

Step 2: Open the “Calls” tab and tap “New Call.”

Step 3: Invite users or generate a call link.

If you invite users directly, the call will start immediately. If you generate a link, you can send it around and agree on a start time.

Method 2: From an active call

Step 1: Start a one-on-one call and wait for the person to answer.

Step 2: Tap the “+” icon in the top right corner.

Step 3: Select additional participants from your contact list.

They’ll receive a call invitation and will join once they accept.

How to invite others to a group call

If you’re already in a group call, there are three ways to add more participants.

Method 1: From contacts

In the participant list, tap “Add Participant.” Telegram will show your contacts to choose from.

Method 2: Via link

If the person isn’t in your contacts, tap “Share Invite Link.” Copy and send the link manually, or share it through another messaging app.

Method 3: Via QR code

For easier access, generate a QR code. Tap “Share Invite Link,” then tap the three-dot menu next to the link and select “Get QR Code.”

Share the QR code however you like. The person just needs to scan it with their phone’s camera.

Features of the new group calls

Encryption

All group calls are end-to-end encrypted. Only participants can decrypt the conversation — the decryption key is stored locally on their devices.

To verify this, open the four emoji shown at the top of your call screen. Say the emoji aloud and ask your participant to compare. If they match, your call is secure — even Telegram can’t access it.

Participant count
Previously, voice calls were limited to two people. The new group call feature supports up to 200 participants in a single call.

Additional call features
You can turn on your camera so others can see you. Or share your screen — helpful if someone needs tech support.

Participant controls
Each participant can adjust others’ volumes or mute them individually. Android users can enable microphone noise suppression; on iOS, this is built into the system.

The call creator has more controls — they can mute someone for everyone, remove participants, or end the call for everyone. Other users can only leave the call.