Telegram’s latest update introduces scheduled voice chats and two versions of web apps

It has been more than a month since Telegram updates its mobile and web apps. But the wait appears to be worth it as the messaging service introduces new features in a patch that went live this week.

Telegram scheduled voice chats

Telegram has been the preferred platform for organizations or people with the same interests as their primary tool for communication. However, when the group chat or channel gets a little too crowded, it is more efficient to initiate voice chats.

The other common issue, however, is that Telegram admins often have voice chats for groups and channels unannounced, leaving out some members. The update released on Monday aims to address that by introducing scheduled voice chats.

Group and channel admins will be able to schedule voice chats ahead of time. Once a date and time are set, Telegram says a “colorful countdown” will appear at the top of the chat. Members can also choose to receive a notification when the scheduled voice chat begins.

Telegram also clarified that the scheduled voice chat would not automatically start when the countdown finishes. Group and channel admins will still have to press a start button for the broadcast to begin.

Another voice chat-related update allows Telegram users to view the profile photo and bio of other people included in the group call without leaving the screen. Users can also replace their photos or update their bios while staying in the voice chat window.

Telegram Web gets 2 new versions

Telegram has been the messaging service choice for many because of its standalone web and desktop app. Users can log in, send and receive messages, call, and receive a call from the desktop app or Telegram Web even if their phones are dead or nowhere near them.

While the web version introduced in 2014 was already a very capable platform, Telegram felt the need to release two new versions included in this week’s update. The differences between “Telegram Web K” and “Telegram Web Z” were not specified. But the messaging app’s developer confirmed they both require 400KB download only and are fully featured services that support dark mode, animated stickers, and chat folders.

Featured photo by Christian Wiediger on Unsplash