Telegram (software)
Telegram Messenger, commonly known as Telegram, is a cloud-based, encrypted, cross-platform, instant messaging (IM) service. It was originally launched for iOS on 14 August 2013 and Android on 20 October 2013. It allows users to exchange messages, share media and files, and hold private and group voice or video calls as well as public livestreams. It is available for Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux, and web browsers. Telegram also offers end-to-end encryption in voice and video calls, and in optional private chats, which Telegram calls Secret Chats.
Some of the key events about Telegram (software)
- 2013Launched as a cloud-based instant messaging service with a focus on speed and security
- 2013Concerns raised over Telegram's encryption claims and security practices
- 2014Introduced end-to-end encryption for Secret Chats
- 2015Released a public API for third-party developers to create bots
- 2015Telegram criticized for not taking sufficient action against ISIS propaganda channels
- 2016Reached 100 million monthly active users
- 2017Introduced voice calls with end-to-end encryption
- 2017Telegram accused of being used to coordinate terrorist attacks in Russia
- 2018Launched Telegram Passport for secure identity verification
- 2018Telegram blocked in Russia due to refusal to provide encryption keys to authorities
- 2018Apple temporarily removed Telegram from App Store due to distribution of child pornography
- 2019Added support for group video calls
- 2019Telegram's planned cryptocurrency project TON faced regulatory challenges and was ultimately abandoned
- 2020Reached 400 million monthly active users
- 2020Telegram sued by SEC for conducting an unregistered digital token offering
- 2021Introduced Payments 2.0, allowing seamless payments within the app
- 2021Telegram used to spread misinformation and organize violent protests in various countries
- 2022Launched Premium subscription with additional features and increased limits
- 2022Telegram criticized for allowing Russian state media to continue operating on its platform during Ukraine invasion
- 2023Telegram faced scrutiny for inadequate content moderation and spread of extremist content
Disclaimer: This material is written based on information taken from open sources, including Wikipedia, news media, podcasts, and other public sources.