Latest Telegram update brings phone number links, download manager, and more

If you’re a Telegram user, a new update is waiting for you. The latest version of the app brings a slew of features and improvements. There’s a new Download Manager, redesigned interface for the Android app, a preview for media albums, and more. One of the most noteworthy features comes in the form of new phone number links.

You could always create a username on Telegram and share your t.me/username link for others to find you without your phone number. However, these usernames are public and make it possible for people to find you in global search. The update now allows you to share a direct t.me link to your phone number that instantly opens up a chat with you.

The format for these links is t.me/+123456789, with the full phone number in international format. Of course, the link will only work if your privacy settings let others find you by your phone number. So essentially, these links will not make you searchable by anyone but will still allow those who have your phone number to contact you more easily.

Elsewhere, Telegram is also introducing a new Download Manager. While files are actively downloading, a new icon will now appear in the search bar. You can tap the icon or go to the “Downloads” tab in Search to view, pause, resume, and prioritize downloads.

When sending multiple photos, you can now see a preview of the media album and rearrange or remove items before sending it across.

Telegram’s Android app is also getting a facelift with a new transparency effect. In Night Mode, panels and headers will now have a subtle transparent look, making chat backgrounds, stickers, and media files more prominent.

Another new feature coming to the app is support for live streaming. This update will let you broadcast from streaming tools like OBS Studio and XSplit Broadcaster — to add overlays and multi-screen layouts with ease.