Telegram has announced new features related to channels, such as better discovery of similar channels, customization of emojis for reactions and statistics for stories to better compete with WhatsApp. The Meta-owned platform launched its broadcast channels globally in September.
When a user subscribes to a new Telegram channel, the app will now suggest similar channels that they can connect to for better viewing of various channels.
In August, the app rolled out stories to all users. With the latest update, it will also allow users and channels to repost their stories on their own pages. You can add text, images or video commentary in stories when reposting.
Channels can also add custom emojis based on their level. Premium users can boost any channel of their choice — they get a boost with their subscription. Based on the number of boosts, channels are assigned a level to unlock features such as the ability to post stories. It’s a slightly complicated and gamified process.
Image Credits: Telegram
For channels that already have stories enabled, Telegram will now allow them to see statistics for different stories, including the number of views, reactions and shares along with a timeline of activity.
Last month, Telegram too introduced a gift feature where channels can host Telegram Premium giveaways and other giveaways to welcome new followers or boost their following.
In addition to channel-related features, Telegram is expanding voice-to-text functionality for audio messages to free users with a maximum of two transcripts per week. Additionally, the new update comes with features like a better highlight block for code in messages, a two-sided wallpaper for premium users that will be visible to both parties in a chat, and an improved topic view in groups.
Telegram has had channel features for a long time, but the app is now being forced to innovate due to WhatsApp rolling out a similar feature. Last month, Mark Zuckerberg said on his WhatsApp broadcast channel that the channels operation had crossed the 500 million monthly active users mark. For context, WhatsApp has over 2 billion monthly active users and Telegram has over 800 million monthly active users.
Image Credits: Telegram
