While Telegram is one of the best instant messaging apps in terms of features, one major feature that it was lacking was support for video calls. That is finally changing as Telegram has released a new update, version 7.0.0, that adds brings an alpha version of Video calls along with new animated emoji.
As is with every feature, video calling in Telegram is quite simple. Go to a contacts profile page and there will be a new button to start video calls. The interface is quite minimal now, with the ability to turn the video on or off, enabling quick switching between video and voice calls.
The feature supports picture-in-picture, which will let users scroll through chats in Telegram or multitask in the app without pausing the video. All calls will be end-to-end encrypted, using the same encryption as Telegram’s Secret Chats and Voice Calls. Telegram added a fun way to verify encryption – simply compare the 4 emoji shown on the top of the video call with your friend. If it is the same, you can be assured that the call is encrypted.
Along with video calls, Telegram is also adding new animated emoji with the update. Video calls on Telegram is currently being tested as an alpha feature in both Android and iOS. Support for group videos calls will reportedly arrive later in the year.