Pavel Durov, the CEO of Telegram, announced a series of major changes to the popular messaging app. This comes in just days after being released from a French prison. The updates include new features and the removal of outdated ones. The platform is facing increasing scrutiny over illegal activities.
New Features Rolled Out
In a post on his official Telegram channel, Durov highlighted that Telegram now has 10 million paid subscribers using Telegram Premium. He added, “Today, we’re introducing new features while phasing out a few outdated ones.”
The announcement marks a significant shift for the platform as it seeks to curb illicit activities and enhance user experience.
Issues with Illegal Content
French authorities had detained Durov on charges related to illegal content on Telegram. The illegal content included crimes such as fraud, money laundering and sharing images of child sex abuse.
After his release, Durov pointed to the rapid increase in user numbers as a reason for the platform’s challenges. Telegram’s user base has grown to 950 million, which Durov said has led to “growing pains” that made it easier for criminals to exploit the app.
He also denied allegations that Telegram refused to cooperate with European authorities.
Key Moderation Changes
One of the significant updates includes the removal of the “People Nearby” feature, which was used by less than 0.1% of Telegram users. The feature faced issues with bots and scammers, leading to its discontinuation.
In its place, Telegram will introduce “Businesses Nearby,” a tool that will allow users to find verified businesses. These businesses will be able to display product catalogues and accept payments directly within the app.
Durov also announced that users will no longer be able to upload images or videos on Telegraph, Telegram’s standalone blogging tool. This decision comes after the feature was reportedly misused by anonymous actors.
Addressing Criticism
Durov emphasized that the overwhelming majority of Telegram users are law-abiding. He stated that only 0.001% of users have engaged in illegal activities, which has unfairly tarnished the platform’s reputation. He expressed confidence that the new moderation efforts will transform Telegram from a source of criticism into one of praise.
A New Direction for Telegram
With these changes, the messenger app aims to balance growth with responsibility. As the platform continues to expand, the company is making a clear effort to address concerns about safety and security. These updates represent a significant step in that direction, ensuring Telegram remains a leading player in the messaging space while complying with global regulations.
