TELEGRAM KICKS OFF 2025 WITH COLLECTIBLE GIFTS AS NFTs

Telegram has unveiled its first update of 2025, introducing a range of innovative features that enhance user experience and interaction on the popular messaging platform.

Collectible Gifts

One of the most notable additions is the introduction of collectible gifts. Users can now upgrade their received gifts to collectibles, which come with special attributes and can be transferred to other users or even auctioned on NFT marketplaces.

Unique Appearances

When upgraded, gifts unlock new appearances from a selection of custom variations created by Telegram artists. Each collectible also receives random secondary traits, including background color, icon, and number, making every piece a unique work of art.

Expanded Gift Selection

Over 20 existing gifts, such as the Homemade Cake, Jelly Bunny, and Santa Hat, can be upgraded to collectibles. With more than 1400 unique appearances available and more to come, users have a vast array of options to choose from.

Enhanced Interaction Features

Telegram has also introduced new ways for users to interact within the platform:

Reactions to Service Messages

Users can now add reactions to service messages, such as when someone sends a gift, joins a group, or starts a video chat. This feature allows for quick and easy responses to various in-chat events.

Refined Message Search

The search function has been improved with additional filters, allowing users to refine their search results to show only private chats, group chats, or channels.

Third-Party Verification

In an effort to improve transparency and prevent misinformation, Telegram has introduced a decentralized platform for additional verification:

Extra Verification Icons

Official third-party services can now assign extra verification icons to user accounts and chats. This proactive solution sets a new safety standard for social platforms.

Visual Indicators

Verified accounts and chats will display a small logo before their name, with detailed explanations available in their profiles.

Other Notable Updates

• Custom Emoji in Folder Names: Premium users can now add custom emoji to their chat folder names for added expressiveness.
• In-App QR Code Scanner: The in-app camera on Android and iOS now recognizes QR codes by default.
• Profitability Milestone: Telegram announced that it reached profitability in 2024, thanks to features like Premium subscriptions and privacy-conscious ads.