Telegram’s Latest Update Brings More Privacy, Chromecast Support and New Monetisation Features

Highlights

• Telegram’s new update introduces new tools for content creators, improved spam filtering, identity verification and adds monetisation features.
• Android users can now stream Telegram videos directly to Chromecast devices for a larger screen experience.
• Users can earn and gift Telegram Stars, withdraw Stars for various purchases, and pin gifts on their profile cover.
• Verification costs for businesses have also been reduced.

Telegram has just released a major update aimed at improving privacy, monetisation and user experience. This update brings new tools for content creators, enhanced security measures and even Chromecast support for Android users.

The update details were officially announced in a detailed blog post titled “Star Messages, Pinned Gifts, Verification Platform 2.0, and More.” “Today’s update gives content creators and public figures more control over their privacy while offering new ways to monetize their popularity. Now you can filter incoming messages, protect your peace of mind, and earn Telegram Stars — all while staying connected with your audience. This update also introduces an info page for new chats to prevent scams, the option to gift Premium with Stars, and Verification Platform 2.0, helping startups save on user verification — plus much more,” Telegram blog specifies.

Here’s a quick look at what’s new.

Fee In Star Messages

Telegram Premium users can now charge a fee in Stars for messages from people outside their contacts. This feature helps reduce spam, keep inboxes organised, and even earn Telegram Stars.

Some key benefits include:

• Filtering unwanted messages to keep your inbox clutter-free
• Allowing only paid messages from unknown senders
• Monetising popularity while maintaining privacy
• Extending to group chats for better discussions and earnings

Users can customise who can message them for free and even issue instant Star refunds when needed. Telegram blog explains, “Star Messages come with customizable settings — you can allow certain users or members of specific groups to message you for free. And if you ever need to make an exception after a message is sent, you can instantly refund the Stars with a single tap.”

Below are the steps to follow to enable Star Messages:

• For private chats: Go to Settings > Privacy and Security > Messages
• For groups: Adjust permissions and enable Charge Stars for Messages

Contact Confirmation

Now, when an unknown sender messages you for the first time, Telegram will show a detailed info page to help verify their identity.

The details include

• “Their country (based on their phone number).
• Any shared groups you have in common.
• When they joined Telegram — so you can spot fresh accounts.
• When they last updated their username or profile picture — a handy way to detect sudden identity changes.
• Clear indicators showing whether the user is an official account, has third-party verification, or is just a regular user.”

This feature helps users avoid scams and fake accounts by providing useful background information before replying.

Gift Premium with Stars

Users can now use earned Stars to gift Telegram Premium to others, unlocking benefits like:

• Faster downloads
• Exclusive custom emojis
• More advanced features

To send a Premium gift, simply open a contact’s profile, tap the three-dot menu, and select Send a Gift.

Withdraw Stars and Manage Group Funds

Stars earned from Star Messages can be withdrawn after 21 days via Fragment. These Stars can be used for:

• Telegram Ads
• TON blockchain collectibles
• Other purchases

Group owners can also track and manage their group’s Star balance directly from the group profile.

Manage Group Star Balances

Telegram blog explains, “Group owners who receive Stars from Star Messages can now view and manage their group’s Star balance directly from the group’s profile, making it easier to track and utilize earned Stars.”

Pin Gifts on Your Profile

Users can now pin up to six gifts on their profile cover to showcase their favourites. You can manage your pinned gifts under:

Settings > My Profile > Gifts

Chromecast Support for Android

Android users can now stream Telegram videos directly to Chromecast devices. Whether it’s for memes, movies, or presentations, you can easily cast videos to a bigger screen by:

• Opening a video 
• Tapping the Settings icon
• Selecting Chromecast

Verification Platform 2.0: Cheaper Authentication for Businesses

Telegram has made its Verification Platform 20% cheaper, lowering authentication costs to just $0.01 per message (compared to $0.50 or more for traditional SMS). Businesses can also:

• Set delivery time limits
• Automatically refund undelivered codes
• Enjoy free testing for verification services

This update makes authentication more affordable for startups and businesses.

Telegram Update – Rollout Details

Telegram confirmed that the latest update (v11.8.1 or later) is now available for iOS and Android users. Android users can download it from telegram.org/android or the Google Play Store.

With these new features, Telegram continues to improve privacy, usability and monetisation tools for its users.

FAQs

Q1. How can Telegram Premium users benefit from Star Messages?

Answer. Telegram Premium users can charge a fee in Stars for messages from people outside their contacts. This feature helps reduce spam, keep inboxes organised, and even earn Telegram Stars.

Q2. How does Telegram help verify the identity of unknown senders?

Answer. Telegram shows a detailed info page for unknown senders, including the sender’s country, shared groups, account history, and indicators for official, verified, or regular user accounts.

Q3. What new feature is available for Android users with this Telegram update?

Answer. Android users can now stream Telegram videos directly to Chromecast devices, allowing them to cast videos to a bigger screen.

Also Read:Telegram Update Introduces AI-Powered Sticker Search and Better Video Features