Telegram adds live stories, repeated messages and gift auctions

Telegram has rolled out a major update introducing live broadcasts in Stories, recurring messages and a new auction system for distributing limited edition gifts. The features were detailed in a post on the company’s official blog.

Live stories

Any user can now start a live stream directly within their Stories, complete with a real time chat. The feature works for personal accounts as well as groups and channels.

Viewers can send comments and support creators with Telegram Stars. Paid messages are highlighted and pinned in the stream’s chat for maximum visibility.

The new format supports RTMP keys for external broadcasting tools such as OBS and XSplit, and follows the same privacy settings as regular Stories.

Repeated messages

Telegram has added the ability to schedule recurring messages and reminders. Users can pick from a range of intervals including daily, bi monthly and more.

The feature is designed to help automate routine tasks and build useful habits. It is available through a long press on the Send button.

Auctions for new gifts

Rare Telegram gifts will now be distributed through an auction system meant to ensure fair allocation of limited collectible items.

Users bid with Stars across several rounds. The size of the bid determines the gift’s unique number and the highest bid receives number 1.

After each round, a certain number of top bidders get their gifts. Unused bids either roll over into the next round or are returned to participants.

New interface designs

The iOS app now features more Liquid Glass interface elements. Profiles, the settings menu and the attachment panel have been refreshed with new energy efficient animations.

The Android version has received a redesigned input field with a more minimal aesthetic, along with a subtle blur effect when scrolling.