Telegram rolls out multi-tab browser, mini app store with latest update
Telegram on Thursday introduced a slew of new features aimed at improving the overall user experience. One of the major additions rolling out to the instant messaging platform is a new in-app browser with support for multiple tabs. The messaging service also announced that its 950 million monthly active users can now take advantage of a new option that allows them to gift Telegram Stars to friends or family. The development comes a month after the platform rolled out support for Copilot, Microsoft’s artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot.
Telegram updated with multi-tab in-app browser, mini-apps store
In a blog afterTelegram highlighted all the new features rolling out to users with the latest update. It introduces a new in-app browser that supports opening multiple tabs, allowing users to switch between collapsed and reopened windows, the service said.
Telegram’s new in-app browser also supports decentralized websites hosted on the Telegram Open Network (TON) on mobile and desktop platforms. While viewing a web page, users can return to chats without losing their progress, Telegram said.
A new Applications tab has also been added in Search Querywhich allows users to browse through the mini apps on the platform. This option also allows them to view the list of apps they already use and check out some of the most popular mini apps on the platform. Previews of these apps can now include video demos and screenshots that developers can upload.
Additionally, content generated via mini-apps — like leaderboard snapshots or AI-generated videos — can now be shared as a Telegram Story directly from the mini-app. Stories also have a new animated weather widget. Telegram Stars, originally intended for purchasing content within mini-apps or paid channel content, can now be gifted to friends or family.
When recording a video story with the front-facing camera, the front-facing flash can now be used to brighten up the screen. After updating to the latest version of Telegram for iOS or Android smartphones, a new flash icon will appear at the bottom-left corner of the screen in the camera user interface (UI). Telegram has also introduced the ability to select a cover for a video story, allowing users to choose the image they want to see at the front.
According to Telegram, in addition to the mobile platform, the new in-app browser and mini-apps tab features were also introduced for macOS as part of the July update.