In a bold announcement, Telegram founder Pavel Durov revealed that the messaging app has crossed a monumental milestone: over 1 billion monthly active users. This surge cements Telegram’s position as the world’s second most popular messaging platform—trailing only WhatsApp—excluding China’s WeChat. The news, shared with Durov’s characteristic flair, underscores Telegram’s meteoric rise and sets the stage for an intensifying rivalry in the global messaging arena.
The numbers tell a compelling story. Beyond its billion-plus user base, Telegram is seeing unprecedented engagement. On average, users open the app 21 times a day and spend 41 minutes within its ecosystem—a testament to its sticky, feature-rich design. But it’s not just user growth that’s turning heads. Durov boasted a financial triumph, with Telegram posting a staggering $547 million in profit for 2024. What began as a privacy-focused upstart has evolved into a profitable powerhouse, all while staying independent—a jab Durov couldn’t resist aiming at his rivals.
Taking a swipe at WhatsApp, Durov called it a “cheap, watered-down imitation” of Telegram, accusing the Meta-owned giant of squandering billions on lobbying and PR to stifle Telegram’s ascent. “They failed,” he declared, pointing to Telegram’s ability to innovate and grow without bending to external pressures. From encrypted chats to massive group channels, Telegram’s features have long set it apart, and Durov claims WhatsApp’s attempts to copy them have fallen flat.
With this milestone, Telegram isn’t slowing down. “We are just getting started,” Durov teased, hinting at more ambitious plans ahead. As the app continues to blend privacy, functionality, and profitability, the question looms: can Telegram dethrone WhatsApp and claim the top spot? For now, the scrappy contender is reveling in its silver-medal moment—and it’s clear Durov has his eyes on gold.