Telegram is a free instant messaging app which works on all your devices: Android, iOS, PC, Mac, Linux, Windows Phone, and there's a web version to cover everything else.
You can have the app running simultaneously, everywhere if you like -- Telegram automatically keeps everything in sync.
Chats can be simple, just you and one or two friends. Add some stickers, use the animated GIF search, or share some pictures of your own. There's even a capable photo editor to make sure your images are looking their best.
But that's just the start. You could also work with groups of up to 5,000 people, and share an unlimited number of photos, videos, archives, or any other file type up to a maximum of 1.5 GB each. And if there's not enough space on your device, no problem-- keep it in the cloud. (It's still free.)
Powerful privacy features include "Secret Chats", a special type of encrypted message which can be set to self-destruct in a set time after it's been read.
An open API enables developers to extend the app with smart bots and custom Telegram clients.
And all this is based on a network of servers distributed around the world, delivering excellent performance wherever you are.
What's new in 5.6?
- Swipe left on any chat to archive it.
- Swipe left on your archive to hide it from the chat list.
- Pin an unlimited number of chats in your archive.
- See who is online straight from the chat list and sharing menu.
- Select multiple chats in the chats list to delete, pin or archive them.
- Choose between two-line and three-line chats in the chat list.
- Enjoy the redesigned app icon and menus throughout the app.
- Use the quick 'Forward' buttons when selecting messages
Verdict:
Fast and crammed with features, there's a lot to like about Telegram. That might not help much if everyone you know is on WhatsApp instead, but we'd say try it anyway.
Your Comments & Opinion
A versatile messaging app for all your devices
A versatile messaging app for all your devices
A versatile messaging app for all your devices
A versatile messaging app for all your devices
WhatsApp for the desktop? Well...
WhatsApp for the desktop? Well...
A speedy web browser with a focus on security and privacy
A speedy web browser with a focus on security and privacy
Minor update to the popular email client, but with a limited number of new features
Minor update to the popular email client, but with a limited number of new features
Minor update to the popular email client, but with a limited number of new features