The world of messaging apps just got a little more interesting for businesses. Telegram, the popular cloud-based messaging platform known for its focus on security and large file transfers, has launched new features specifically designed for businesses. This move is widely seen as a direct challenge to Meta (formerly Facebook) and its dominant messaging app, WhatsApp.
In short:
- Telegram launches ‘Business’ features: Customizable start pages, automated greetings, and revenue sharing for channels that aim to attract businesses.
- A direct challenge to Meta: Telegram positions itself as a more feature-rich and potentially profitable platform for businesses.
- Shift in the business messaging landscape:This move could spark a battle for dominance in the ever-evolving world of business communication apps.
What is Telegram Business?
Telegram Business is a new suite of features designed to turn the messaging app into a powerful tool for businesses. It allows companies to create a branded landing page, automate greetings, and use chatbots for customer support. Telegram Business also boasts strong security and larger file-sharing capacities compared to rivals, making it ideal for businesses that prioritize features and customization.
New Telegram Business Features
Telegram Business offers a range of features to streamline communication and improve customer interaction for businesses. Here are some of the key highlights:
- Customized Start Page: Businesses can now create a unique landing page within Telegram, allowing them to showcase their brand identity, product offerings, and contact information. This provides a professional first impression and centralizes important details for customers.
- Automated Greetings and Away Messages: Businesses can set automated greeting messages to welcome new customers and establish communication channels. Additionally, pre-written away messages can inform customers of response times outside business hours, managing expectations and maintaining a sense of professionalism.
- Pre-set Replies and Chatbots: Telegram Business allows businesses to create pre-defined responses to frequently asked questions. This saves time and ensures consistent messaging. Additionally, businesses can integrate chatbots to automate basic interactions and provide 24/7 customer support.
- Chat Management Tools: Businesses can leverage features like chat tags to categorize conversations for better organization. They can also create unique links that instantly open a Telegram chat with a pre-defined action, such as tracking an order or booking an appointment.
- Telegram Revenue Sharing for Channels: Public channels with at least 1,000 subscribers can now participate in Telegram’s ad revenue sharing program. This offers businesses a potential source of income by leveraging their established audience within the platform.
Steps to use Telegram Business
Step 1: Download & Sign Up
Grab the Telegram app and create an account (or use your existing one).
Step 2: Launch Your Channel
Create a new “Channel” to represent your business.
Step 3: Craft Your Profile
Design a professional profile picture and channel description.
Step 4: Go Business
Explore features like greetings, replies, and chatbots to boost communication.
Step 5: Connect & Grow
Share your channel link and invite customers to join the conversation!
Difference between Telegram Business and Meta (WhatsApp)
| Feature | Telegram Business | Meta (WhatsApp) |
|---|---|---|
| Features for Business | – Customizable start page – Automated greetings/away messages – Pre-set replies & chatbots – Chat management tools (tags & links) – Revenue sharing for channels (1000+ subscribers) |
– Business profiles – Product catalogs – Order tracking (limited) – Payment features (limited, region-specific) – Group chats |
| Security & Privacy | – End-to-end encryption (private & secret chats) – Usernames instead of phone numbers – More control over data deletion |
– End-to-end encryption (all chats by default) – Owned by Meta (raises privacy concerns for some) – Limited data deletion control |
| File Sharing | Up to 2GB file size limit | Up to 100MB file size limit |
| Community Building | Public channels with unlimited subscribers | Groups with up to 256 participants |
| Cost | Free (premium features may be offered in the future) | Free for basic features * Paid features for larger businesses |
| Existing User Base | Growing user base, but smaller than WhatsApp | The dominant player in the messaging app market |
The best platform for your business depends on your specific needs. If you require advanced features, strong security, and large community building capabilities, Telegram Business may be a good fit.
Features of Telegram Business for Different Businesses
The best features of Telegram Business will vary depending on the specific needs of each business. Here are some examples:
- E-commerce Businesses: Pre-set replies for order tracking, automated notifications, and chatbots for customer support can significantly improve efficiency.
- Customer Service: Large group chats in channels can be used to provide customer support or host Q&A sessions.
- Media & Entertainment: Broadcast channels can be leveraged to share news updates, promote content, and interact directly with a large audience.
Future of Business Messaging Apps
The launch of Telegram Business features signifies a growing focus on catering to the specific needs of businesses within the messaging app landscape. This competition is likely to benefit businesses by driving innovation and offering a wider range of feature-rich options. As user preferences and expectations evolve, messaging apps may become even more crucial for businesses to connect and engage with their customers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Telegram Business throws down the gauntlet to Meta (WhatsApp), offering a feature-rich suite for businesses. With customizable start pages, automated greetings, chatbots, and revenue sharing for channels, Telegram caters to businesses seeking advanced functionality and stronger security. This shift in the business messaging app landscape empowers businesses to choose the platform that best suits their needs, potentially leading to a new era of innovation in messaging apps for business.
Telegram New ‘Business’ Features – FAQs
Is Telegram Business free to use?
Yes, the core Telegram Business features are free to use.
How does the Telegram app work?
Telegram functions like most messaging apps, allowing users to send text messages, photos, videos, and other files.
Is Telegram Business secure for business communication?
Telegram offers a high level of security with end-to-end encryption for private chats and secret chats. However, businesses should always be aware of security best practices.
Can I use both Telegram Business and WhatsApp?
Yes, businesses can use both platforms depending on their specific needs and target audience.
Why would someone use Telegram?
People might choose Telegram for its focus on features and customization, larger file sharing capabilities, and potentially stronger security (depending on usage).
Who owns Telegram app?
Telegram is owned by a non-profit foundation.