What is Telegram and how to use it

Telegram is more than just a messaging app. It is a platform for communication, file sharing, creating channels and groups, and automating tasks with bots.

Launched in 2013 by brothers Pavel and Nikolai Durov, Telegram has become one of the most popular apps in the world thanks to its speed, security, and wide range of features. In 2025, the platform continues to evolve, adding new tools and capabilities.

In this guide, we explain what Telegram is, how to install it, how to use its core features, and how to protect your account. Whether you are a beginner or want to explore the latest features, this article will help you get started.

What is Telegram?

Telegram is a cloud-based messenger that allows users to send text messages, make voice and video calls, share files of any size and format, and create groups and channels for large audiences.

Its main advantages include:

• Speed. Messages are delivered instantly thanks to a distributed network of data centers.
• Security. Encryption is used throughout the platform, including end-to-end encryption for secret chats.
• Versatility. Supports groups with up to 200,000 members, channels with unlimited subscribers, bots, and mini apps.
• Cross-platform availability. Works on Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux, and in a web browser.
• Free access. Telegram is free to use, with an optional Premium subscription offering additional features.

History and popularity

Telegram was launched in 2013 by the Durov brothers, who previously created the social network VKontakte. The messenger quickly gained popularity due to its focus on privacy and the absence of ads in the interface. As of March 2025, Telegram has more than 1 billion monthly active users worldwide.

How to install Telegram

To start using Telegram, you need to install the app on your device.

On a smartphone (Android or iOS)

1. Open Google Play (Android) or the App Store (iOS).
2. Search for Telegram and select the official Telegram Messenger app.
3. Tap Get and wait for the installation to finish.
4. Open the app and begin registration.

On a computer (Windows, macOS, Linux)

1. Go to the official Telegram website: telegram.org.
2. Open the Apps section and choose the version for your operating system.
3. Download the installer and run it.
4. Follow the setup instructions and launch the app.

Web version

1. Open a browser and go to web.telegram.org.
2. Scan the QR code using the Telegram mobile app, or enter your phone number and the SMS code.
   Please note: you cannot register a new account via the web version. You can only log in to an existing account.

Important: Install Telegram only from official sources (Google Play, App Store, telegram.org) to avoid malware.

How to Register on Telegram

A Telegram account is linked to a phone number.

1. Open the Telegram app.
2. Tap Start Messaging.
3. Enter your phone number.
4. Enter the verification code sent via SMS.
5. Set your name and optionally upload a profile photo.

You cannot register a new account on the desktop version. It only allows you to log in to an existing account.

How to Use Telegram

Core Features

Once registered, you can start using Telegram immediately.

• Sending messages

1. Select a contact or group from your chat list.
2. Type a message in the input field.
3. Tap the send arrow.

• Sending media and files

Tap the paperclip icon in a chat.

1. The Gallery section opens automatically, showing your photos and videos.
2. Telegram supports files up to 2 GB (4 GB for Premium subscribers).

To send documents or other files, select the File option instead.

• Voice and video calls

1. Open a chat with a contact.
2. Tap the contact’s name at the top of the screen.
3. Tap the phone icon for a voice call or the camera icon for a video call.

How to create a group call is explained in a separate article.

How to start a secure group call in Telegram without creating a group — and invite others via link?

Telegram’s latest update adds a new way to start secure group calls — here’s how it works and how to invite others via link or QR code.

Durov's CodeDaria Ivanova

• Adding contacts

1. Go to Contacts.
2. Tap Add Contact (or the plus icon) and enter the person’s phone number and name.

Creating Groups and Channels

• Groups are suitable for communication with up to 200,000 members.

1. Go to Chats → New Group.
2. Select participants and choose a group name.

• Channels

Channels are used to publish content to an unlimited audience.

1. Go to Chats → New Channel.
2. Set the channel name, description, and choose whether it will be public or private.

Secret Chats

For highly confidential conversations, use secret chats with end-to-end encryption. Durov’s Code previously covered them in detail.
(link)

1. Open the contact’s profile.
2. Tap the three dots → Start Secret Chat.

Important: Secret chats are available only on mobile devices and on Telegram for macOS from the App Store. They are tied to a specific device.

Using Bots

Bots are automated accounts that perform tasks such as translation, music search, reminders, and more.

1. Find a bot using the search bar.
2. Tap Start and follow the bot’s instructions.

New Features

In 2025, Telegram introduced several new features:

• Collectible gifts. Gifts can be turned into unique digital artworks and sold on NFT marketplaces.
• Third-party verification. Accounts can be verified by organizations using custom logos instead of a blue checkmark.
• Reactions to service messages. Users can react with emojis to messages like “User joined the group.”
• Task lists. Can be created in any chat for easier team coordination.
  (link)
• Suggested posts and direct messages for channels. Users can submit content for free or add Stars (Telegram’s internal currency) to boost publication.
• Automatic translation in channels. Available even without a Premium subscription.
• Group calls. Both voice and video formats are supported.
• Paid messages via Stars. Messages from unknown users can be made paid.
• New contact info. Telegram displays the country and registration date of users who message you for the first time.

Privacy and Security Settings

Telegram places strong emphasis on security.

Two-factor authentication

1. Go to Settings → Privacy and Security.
2. Select Two-Step Verification.
3. Set a password and optionally a hint.

Privacy settings

1. In Privacy, configure who can see your phone number, last seen status, and profile photo.
2. Limit who can add you to groups or forward your messages.

Active sessions

1. Go to Settings → Devices.
2. Terminate suspicious sessions.

Tip: Avoid suspicious links and never share sensitive data (such as card photos) in regular chats. Use secret chats for sensitive communication.

Useful Tips

Organize chats into folders

1. Go to Settings → Folders.
2. Create folders for personal, work, or themed chats.

Use Saved Messages

Store important messages, files, or notes in Saved Messages for quick access.
(link)

Customize notifications

1. Go to Settings → Notifications and Sounds.
2. Choose which chats send notifications and assign different sounds.

Avoid spam

Do not add strangers to groups and avoid suspicious links.

What to Do If You Have Problems

• If you don’t receive a registration code, check the phone number or request a voice call.
• If Telegram won’t open, update or reinstall the app.
• If you lose access to your account, use email recovery or contact support.

Conclusion

Telegram is a powerful platform for communication, work, and entertainment. You can chat with friends, follow news, manage a business, or automate tasks using bots. New features continue to make the platform more versatile.