At the end of 2020, we learned that Pavel Durov, the founder of Telegram, is considering making some changes to the app in order to generate revenue to continue its growth. The first step in this direction took place in October 2021 with the addition of ads to mass channels; The next could be the launch of a rumored paid subscription called “.Telegram Premium“.

Although Durov did not mention such a subscription, the businessman has in the past made sure that Telegram’s monetization scheme will include “premium functions” in addition to ads. Now the details of Telegram Premium seem to have surfaced in the closed beta version of the iOS app. According to the Russian channel Beta Info, it will cost $4.99 per month and will provide the following improvements.

This is what Telegram Premium has to offer

• repeating borders. Up to 1,000 channels, 20 chat folders, 10 pinned chats, 4 accounts (in one app), 200 chats pinned in one folder, 20 public links for channels and groups, 10 favorite stickers and 400 GIFs.
• 4GB file upload . Telegram currently allows uploading files up to 2GB.
• More space to complete the biography. Up to 140 characters in the profile bio instead of the default 70.
• More characters in descriptions. It will allow longer descriptions for photos and videos.
• faster downloads. There is no speed limit for media and document downloads.
• speech to text. Telegram Premium will offer an automatic transcript of voicemails.
• No ads. There will be no advertisements on public channels.
• Special reactions. Additional animated responses to messages.
• premium stickers. Expanded custom stickers with additional effects with monthly updates.
• Advanced chat management. Tools to set default folder, auto-archive and hide new chats from contacts.
• profile badge. A badge next to the name indicates that the user supports Telegram with their subscription.
• animated profile pictures. Animated avatars in chat lists.
• Premium App Icons. Choose from various Telegram app icons for your home screen.

As we can see, the advantages that Telegram Premium will apparently offer mainly consist of: double the possibilities of the free version. Now, will it be enough for users to pay $4.99 per month? We will learn over time whether Durov’s strategy achieves the expected results.

Additionally, other questions may arise, such as will we lose some features along the way or will we have to pay for some. According to this leak, we should not lose functions. And let’s remember that Durov promised a long time ago. all Telegram features that are free should stay free. There is still no clear horizon regarding the possible arrival date of Telegram Premium.

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