Telegram launches design contest for “Telegram Nodes”

Telegram has announced the start of its Design Contest 2025, inviting creators to develop the visual concept for Telegram Nodes — a new feature positioned as an internal alternative to Discord.

The prize pool starts at 50,000 USD and may grow as submissions come in.

According to the brief, Telegram Nodes are standalone spaces within the app designed to separate personal chats from work communication. The team directly compares the feature to Discord servers or Slack workspaces, highlighting a more structured way to manage communities and projects.

Nodes will function as full-fledged environments containing multiple chat types, including voice and video rooms, along with advanced tools for administration, roles, and permissions.

A key element of the concept is customizable identity. Users will be able to set a dedicated avatar, name, and bio for each Node, independent of their main Telegram profile. Switching between Nodes and the main chat list will be handled through a sidebar interface.

Requirements for participants:

• Create UI mockups for both iOS and Android in light and dark modes.
• Design key user flows as well as the admin panel.
• Produce a demo video in Telegram’s signature blog style.
• Submit all materials by 15 December 2025.

Winners will receive 10,000 USD each and may be invited to join Telegram’s design team.