The Telegram development team is currently testing a feature that allows users to communicate directly with the owners of public channels. This information was reported by TG Info, a source known for tracking Telegram updates.
The new function was discovered in the beta version of Telegram 11.12 for iOS. Earlier, a similar feature appeared in a test build for macOS, where initiating a chat with a channel admin cost 1 star. In contrast, the version for iPhones introduces free messages to admins, with the minimum cost now reduced to 0 stars. This change may reflect Telegram’s experimentation with monetization and accessibility options across platforms.
Admin Control and Potential Usefulness
It appears likely that channel admins will be able to enable or disable this contact option at their discretion. In addition, they may be given the flexibility to set the cost of messages sent to them, offering a range of control over how accessible they are to their audience.
This new function could prove useful for both users and admins, notes NIX Solutions. Admins would no longer need to publish their personal contact information within the channel or rely on automated bots to manage communication. Despite the increased privacy, they would still maintain a direct line to subscribers, improving interaction without compromising control. At the same time, Telegram’s founder Pavel Durov may benefit financially from the feature, especially if messaging options become part of a broader monetization strategy.
We’ll keep you updated as more details become available or as the feature progresses from beta testing to public release. For now, the development reflects Telegram’s continued efforts to enhance user interaction within its ecosystem while balancing privacy, accessibility, and monetization.