Telegram is a cloud-based instant messaging app that allows users to exchange messages, share media and files, and hold private and group voice or video calls, as well as public livestreams). It was founded by Russian entrepreneur Pavel Durov in 2013 and has an estimated 700 million monthly users. Some key features of Telegram include:

• Multi-platform: Telegram is available for Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux, and web browsers).

• Privacy and security: Telegram is known for its focus on privacy, encryption, and an open-source API. It provides end-to-end encryption in voice and video calls, and in optional private chats, known as Secret Chats). It also allows users to log in with multiple devices and receive messages on all of them).

• Large file size limit: Telegram allows users to send files of up to 2 GB each, making it a popular choice for sharing large media files.

• Group chats and channels: Telegram allows users to create groups for up to 200,000 people or channels for broadcasting to unlimited audiences. It also offers an API that allows developers to create bots, which are accounts controlled by programs).

• Fun features: Telegram has powerful photo and video editing tools, as well as features like stickers, emojis, and GIFs.

Telegram accounts are usually tied to telephone numbers which are verified by SMS or phone call). However, in December 2022, an update introduced the ability to sign up without a phone number and instead by using a +888 number purchased on the Fragment platform, which is linked to the users TON wallet).