App details

Version
Latest (see Google Play)

Update
October 14, 2026

Developer
Telegram FZ-LLC

Categories
Communication

Platforms
Android

File Size

Cost
Free

Package Name
org.telegram.messenger

Report
Report a Problem

View on the official store page

About Telegram

Telegram is a cloud-based messaging app known for large groups, channels and file sharing. This overview explains the differences from WhatsApp and the privacy points to understand.

Telegram stores your chats in the cloud, so you can log in on several devices and see the same conversation history. It also supports large groups, public channels and file transfers of generous size.

Useful features

Channels let publishers broadcast to unlimited subscribers.
Saved Messages works like a private notebook that syncs everywhere.
Bots can automate reminders, polls and downloads.

Privacy points to understand

Normal Telegram chats are cloud chats and are not end-to-end encrypted by default. Only "Secret Chats" use end-to-end encryption. If privacy is your main concern, use Secret Chats for sensitive conversations and review who can see your phone number in Settings.

Who it suits

Study groups, communities and people who want to move large files between devices. As with any app with open channels, be careful with links and "investment tips" from strangers.

Our take

Telegram's main attraction is size: big groups, channels with unlimited readers and large file transfers. That same openness makes it a favourite for scammers, so the app is best used with caution around unknown groups. Remember that normal chats are cloud chats, and only Secret Chats are end-to-end encrypted, which is the key difference from WhatsApp.

An everyday example

A study group shares a large PDF of notes in a Telegram group so that nobody has to compress files. The same student ignores a stranger who messages about easy earnings, and leaves any group that pushes money schemes.

Alternatives and related reading

For everyday family messages, WhatsApp is more common in India. To avoid scams, read about fake job offers and phishing messages.

Common questions

Is Telegram safer than WhatsApp?

Not simply. Each has different privacy trade-offs. Telegram's normal chats are not end-to-end encrypted, while WhatsApp's personal chats are by default.