Telegram has rolled out a new update for its app, introducing several features aimed at enhancing user interaction, channel management, and media sharing.
A significant addition is the ability for users to send direct messages specifically to channels. This functionality allows for private conversations between users and channel owners or administrators. This feature is particularly useful for content creators, enabling them to communicate with subscribers without disclosing personal contact information. These direct messages appear in a distinct interface separate from regular personal chats. Channel creators also have the option to set a fee for each direct message received.
For groups utilizing the ‘Topics’ feature, Telegram has introduced a new layout designed for quicker access and easier navigation between conversations. Users can choose between a minimalist bar displayed at the top of the chat or a larger bar located on the side. This layout can be enabled within the Group Settings under the ‘Topics’ section.
The update also simplifies the process of editing voice messages. Users can now trim the beginning and end of a voice message by swiping up to lock recording during the process. Additionally, tapping the microphone icon again allows users to record supplementary sections to an existing voice message.
When sending photos, a new ‘High Definition’ option is available. According to Telegram, this option preserves significantly more pixel data (four times as many) while maintaining a small file size, listing less than 0.5MB. On iOS, users can now directly share media to their Telegram stories from other applications using the standard ‘Share’ button.
Improvements have also been made to polls. The maximum number of options supported in a poll has been increased to 12. Furthermore, polls can now be forwarded to the ‘Saved Messages’ list, allowing users to easily reference them later.
