Telegram (software)

Telegram (software)
Name	Telegram
Developer	Telegram FZ LLC, Telegram Messenger Inc.
Released	14 August 2013
Operating system	Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux
Genre	Instant messaging, Voice over IP
License	GNU GPLv2 or proprietary (client), proprietary (server)

Telegram (software). Telegram is a cloud-based, cross-platform instant messaging service developed by Telegram Messenger Inc. The application emphasizes speed and security, offering features like end-to-end encryption in specific modes, large group chats, and channels for broadcasting to unlimited audiences. It was founded by brothers Pavel Durov and Nikolai Durov, who previously created the Russian social network VK.

History

The development of Telegram was initiated by Pavel Durov following pressure from the Russian government on his previous company, VK. He left Russia in 2014 and officially launched the service in 2013 through his company Telegram FZ LLC, based in Dubai. The underlying MTProto protocol was designed by his brother, Nikolai Durov, a mathematician renowned for his work on the social network VK. In 2018, the service faced a temporary ban in Russia by Roskomnadzor for refusing to provide encryption keys to the FSB, a conflict that highlighted its stance on user privacy. The platform has since seen significant growth, particularly during periods of controversy surrounding other social media apps like Facebook Messenger and WhatsApp.

Features

Telegram supports one-on-one messages, group chats with up to 200,000 members, and broadcast channels. It offers features like bots, stickers, and a poll system. The service allows users to send various file types, including documents, videos, and images, with a size limit of up to 2 GB. Its cloud storage enables message synchronization across devices like Android phones, iOS devices, and Windows computers. Unique functionalities include a "Saved Messages" chat, usernames for contact without sharing phone numbers, and an open API for third-party client development.

Security and encryption

Telegram employs its proprietary MTProto encryption protocol. Standard private and group chats use client-server/server-client encryption, with keys stored on the company's servers. For enhanced security, its "Secret Chats" feature provides end-to-end encryption, with messages not stored on the cloud and supporting self-destruct timers. The service has faced scrutiny from cryptographers; in 2021, a team from the MIT identified potential vulnerabilities. Telegram's encryption practices have been a focal point in legal disputes with governments, including the FSB in Russia and the FBI in the United States.

Usage and popularity

As of 2023, Telegram reports over 800 million monthly active users. It gained substantial traction during the COVID-19 pandemic and following policy changes at Meta concerning WhatsApp's privacy terms. The platform is particularly popular in regions like Eastern Europe, Central Asia, and parts of the Middle East, often serving as a primary communication tool. It is widely used by journalists, activists, and political groups, including in events like the 2020 Belarusian protests and the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine. Its channels and groups are also utilized for sharing content related to cryptocurrency and blockchain technology.

Business model and funding

Telegram is primarily funded by its founder, Pavel Durov, using personal wealth from the sale of his stake in VK. The company has explored various revenue streams, including a failed initial coin offering for its TON blockchain project in 2020, which led to a legal dispute with the SEC. It later introduced monetization features like premium subscriptions, sponsored messages in public channels, and bot payments. The development of features like Telegram Ads and the sale of usernames via auctions on the TON blockchain represent its ongoing efforts to become financially sustainable.

Reception and controversies

Telegram has received praise for its user interface, feature set, and stance against government surveillance, earning endorsements from figures like Edward Snowden. However, it has been criticized for its proprietary encryption protocol and for harboring illegal content. Governments, including those of India and Brazil, have threatened bans over concerns related to misinformation and use by terrorist organizations. The platform has been implicated in spreading conspiracy theories during the COVID-19 pandemic and was used by participants in the 2021 United States Capitol attack. Its role in the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine as a tool for both disinformation and independent news has further cemented its controversial status.

Category:Instant messaging clients Category:Cross-platform software Category:2013 software