Telegram, a widely popular messaging app known for its commitment to privacy and encryption, has rolled out a substantial update aimed at improving the overall user experience.
This update brings several noteworthy features that cater to both casual users and those seeking more customization options.
One significant addition is the introduction of “similar channels,” a feature familiar to users of other social media platforms.
When users follow a new channel, Telegram now provides a list of similar channels to explore. The algorithm behind this feature takes into account various factors, including the user’s following list, liked posts, and time spent on specific channels.
Accessible on the main channel’s homepage, this feature simplifies the process of discovering content tailored to individual preferences.
Capitalizing on the trend of ephemeral content, Telegram has embraced stories. Users can now not only view but also repost others’ stories, reminiscent of functionalities on Instagram and Facebook.
A unique twist is the ability to record video messages for stories, allowing users to provide commentary on uploaded pictures in a small box. This addition sets Telegram apart, offering a feature not yet present on Instagram.
Cosmetic changes accompany the functional updates. Premium users gain the ability to personalize their profile page’s background color, influencing the message box background as well.
Furthermore, users can now customize the background theme for each chat individually. Noteworthy is the democratization of voice-to-text, previously a premium feature, now available to all users.
Additional features include viewing story statistics, reacting with custom emojis in channels, and catering to coders with code highlighting.
While some of these changes may seem incremental, they contribute to refining the user experience. In the realm of messaging apps, Telegram continues to innovate, balancing familiarity with unique offerings.
The October update, focusing on message-quoting and custom link previews, laid the groundwork for this recent expansion of features.
Telegram’s commitment to staying ahead of the curve is evident in these updates.
The ability to add videos on top of stories is a fresh take on the prevalent story feature, hinting at a potential trend in the social media landscape.
Whether these features are enough to overshadow concerns about paywalls and auto-deleted messages remains to be seen, but Telegram’s dedication to providing a dynamic and feature-rich platform is undeniable.
