Highlights

Telegram users will be able to add 'spoiler' formatting to their messages.

Telegram users may now use emoji to respond to individual messages.

Telegram has enabled in-app translation for messages.

Why in news

Telegram has released an update to its popular messaging service, which includes new features including the ability to translate conversations within the app and the option to respond to messages with emojis for a rapid answer. The instant messaging service, which competes with WhatsApp and Signal, has introduced spoiler text formatting support to its applications, allowing users to hide the content of a message that may include spoilers, which the receiver may then view with a touch. Telegram is now allowing any user or organisation with a public username to create customised QR codes.

Telegram's first addition is an in-app translation capability that may transform messages received from another user or a group, according to the company's official blog. The functionality may be turned on by going to Settings > Language. For communications received in languages they don't understand, users will see a translate button. All Android users will be able to utilise the function, while iPhone users will need to update to iOS 15 in order to do so. Telegram's newest version introduced support for rapid replies, enabling users to respond to messages received from other users using emoticons. Apps like Facebook Messenger and Instagram have popularised the function, and WhatsApp is rumoured to be working on it as well. To choose their default reaction emoji, Android users can go to Chat Settings > Quick Reaction, while iOS users should go to Stickers and Emoji > Quick Reaction.

Telegram has now implemented spoiler formatting support, allowing users to conceal the content of their messages if they include any type of spoilers. Users can opt to conceal sections of their communications, which others can touch to reveal if they so choose. When talking about newly released movies like Spider-Man: No Way Home and The Matrix Resurrections, or TV programmes like The Witcher, the function might come in handy. It's particularly beneficial when talking about sensitive issues, and the concealed half of the message might act as a trigger warning for users.

Telegram previously supports QR codes, but now it now enables 'themeable' QR codes, which can be made for any user with a public username. Users may also customise QR codes with different colours to create QR codes for their groups, channels, and even bots. These may be shared with other applications, as well as printed and emailed. According to the firm, the service has also upgraded seven animated emoji in personal chats with full-screen effects.