Telegram now lets developers turn chats into interactive mini apps

Telegram, a messaging platform renowned for its speed and security, now enables developers to transform chats into interactive mini applications. Users can utilize Telegram on multiple devices simultaneously, with messages syncing seamlessly across various devices. The platform supports diverse content types, including messages, photos, videos, files, groups of up to 200,000 members, and channels for broadcasting to unlimited audiences.

Telegram allows sharing of videos up to 2GB, multiple photos from the web, and forwarding of received media instantly.

Registration necessitates a phone number, though users can opt for a username to maintain privacy. Virtual or secondary SIM numbers are also available for enhanced privacy. Privacy and security measures are in place, but Telegram is not as secure by default as many believe. Secret Chats offer end-to-end encryption, while regular cloud chats are encrypted between the device and Telegram servers, meaning Telegram retains access to the content.

Regular chats are stored on Telegram servers and automatically sync across devices. Secret Chats, however, are device-specific and cannot be backed up or synced. To export chat history, users can export data via Settings > Advanced > Export data on Telegram Desktop.

Telegram's appeal lies in its advanced features, large file sharing, support for large groups, bots, channels, and multi-device syncing. However, privacy-conscious users might prefer Signal for stronger encryption policies. Deleting a Telegram account erases all messages, groups, and contacts. Groups and channels are as secure as their managing individuals, with content not end-to-end encrypted and administrators potentially viewing profiles. Users are advised to exercise caution when joining unknown or large public channels.

In the latest update, users can add music to their profiles, select default profile tabs, create unique chat themes from collectible gifts, and assist friends in upgrading their gifts. Audio files from chats can be added to profiles with a single tap, forming a playlist as more tracks are added. The Stickers Mini App allows users to create stickers, manage packs, and view usage statistics.

Profiles on Android now feature a new design with scrolling animations, initially introduced on iOS. Users can now set chat themes based on Telegram gifts, with each wallpaper uniquely generated based on gift attributes. Users can send Stars to cover gift upgrade costs and find upgradable gifts using a new filter. Finally, users can securely trade collectible gifts in the Gift Marketplace, with the value of gifts displayed for resale.