Telegram has rolled out its latest update (version 12.5.0), introducing new features for groups, chats, and media. Highlights include member tags, privacy controls in private chats, GIF captions and editing, instant stickers from photos, and a new option to log in to apps and websites using Telegram.
Member Tags
Group members can now add tags next to their names to indicate roles, study fields, or interests. This allows users to identify themselves in workplace, school, or community groups.
Admins can control whether members can set their own tags or restrict tag assignment to admins only. Tags for group admins appear in a different color to indicate their role.
- To enable: Go to Group Settings > Permissions > Edit Own Tags.
Disable Sharing in Private Chats
Users can now disable message sharing in any one-on-one chat. This restricts forwarding and prevents screenshots or saving media. This feature is available for Telegram Premium users. To activate, open a user’s profile, tap ⋯ or ⋮, and select Disable Sharing.
GIF Captions and Editing
GIFs can now include captions, placed above or below the GIF before sending. To add a caption, press and hold a GIF in the panel and select Add Caption.
GIFs and stickers can also be edited to add text, drawings, emojis, trim GIFs, or adjust duration. Press and hold the GIF or sticker and select Edit to modify it.
Instant Stickers from Photos
Photos in the media viewer can be converted into stickers with a single tap. Users can edit stickers by cutting out objects, adding text or emojis, and save them to favorites or sticker packs.
Polls with Timestamps
Polls displaying votes now include a timestamp for each vote, showing when participants cast their votes.
Streaming Bot Responses
All Telegram bots can now stream responses in real-time, displaying replies progressively as they are generated.
Log In With Telegram
Users can now sign up or log in to apps and websites using their Telegram account, removing the need for forms or passwords. Phone numbers can be shared for verification, and services can send notifications directly via Telegram.
Time and Date Formatting
Messages can include clickable time and date formatting. Recipients can add events to their calendar or set reminders. Dynamic time variables adjust automatically to each recipient’s local time zone.
Availability
These features are available in Telegram version 12.5.0 or higher:
- Android: Google Play Store or APK from telegram.org/android
- iOS: App Store