Telegram has launched Telegram Premium, a paid version of the app with some notable features. These include the ability to send files upto 4GB up from the current 2GB among others. These features will cost you Ksh. 700.
The move is an attempt by the platform to keep its development “driven primarily by its users, not advertisers,” . It’s also the first time an instant messaging app with hundreds of millions of users has rolled out a premium tier. Signal, WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, Apple’s Messages and Google’s Messages, some of Telegram’s top rivals, don’t offer a premium tier.
The features are as follows;
4G File Uploads
This will go a long way for heavy users who share a lot of big files, if you have a need to share large files, then this features makes sense.
Increased Download Speeds
Download speeds speeds on the platform have largely been pathetic. However, you can forget about all that with the Premium version. Telegram has indicated that you can download files as fast as your internet allows.
1000 Channels
With the Premium version, you can follow up to 1000 channels and create up to 20 chat folders with up to 200 chats each, add a fourth account to any Telegram app, pin 10 chats in the main list and save up to 10 favourite stickers. You can also write a longer bio, and even throw in a link. Get more characters, such as when sending media captions. You can also favourite up to 400 GIFs.
Finally, can reserve up to 20 public t.me links, making any group or channel you create stand out with a short and concise link.
Voice Texts
The Premium version allows you to turn voice notes into texts.
Better Stickers and Reactions
Telegram Premium is packed with an array of full-screen stickers. You can send them to any user, even if they are using the free version of the app. Premium users also unlock more ways to react to messages, with over 10 new emojis.
Animated Profile Pictures
Some other apps, such as Facebook, allow you to have an animated profile image.
Telegram says that profile videos of premium users will animate for all users.
A Badge and Premium App Icon
A badge will be displayed on your profile to indicate that you are a premium user and not a peasant like the rest of the users who will shy away from paying for all the said features.
In the same breath, premium users will also get access to a premium app icon. There are three options to choose from, depending on your style.
Zero Adds
While Telegram does not show ads in Kenya, it does in some other countries. Premium users in those regions will however not see ads any longer.
And what do the rest of the non-premium users get?
Well, here are some improvements for all:
- Group admins can now review requests from users who want to join them.
- Public figures and companies can verify their accounts, which can also be seen in chats.
- Boys have been improved.
- Chat previews in Android are even better now.
- You can now finally see your Telegram images in your Gallery app.