Table of Contents

Telegram Overview

Wai Ting Yong Updated by Wai Ting Yong

Telegram logo

Telegram is a cloud-based instant messaging and voice-over IP service developed by Telegram Messenger LLP.

Learn how to connect your Telegram bot to respond.io here. Once connected, this Telegram bot integration lets you respond to messages directly from our platform.

Pricing

You can use Telegram for free.

You may opt to subscribe to Telegram Premium with a monthly fee to get exclusive features from Telegram.

Capturing Conversation

Telegram requires customers to send your business the first message to start a conversation.

There are a couple of ways to encourage customers to initiate a chat:

  • Chat links: This is a shortened URL using the t.me/username format that you can add to your website, social media profiles or newsletters. When customers click the link, they will be directed to start a chat with you.
  • QR codes: A QR code can be placed in physical locations, such as hotels, restaurants or malls. When customers scan the code, they will be directed to start a chat with you.
  • Chat widget: A Telegram Widget can be added to your website to direct customers to start a chat with you.

Channel Capabilities

These are the capabilities of Telegram:

Supported File Types

The file types supported by Telegram and the maximum file size for each type are as follows:

  • Image (10 MB)
  • Audio (20 MB)
  • Video (20 MB)
  • File (20 MB)
Messages that are not supported will have a fallback display with Unsupported Message or Custom Payload text and Type (if available). 

For any unsupported file type or file that exceeds the maximum file size sent via Telegram, the file will automatically be turned into a URL link on the respond.io platform. For Custom Payload, you can click Show More to view the JSON payload of this message.

Examples of unsupported messages for Telegram are:
- Contact Cards
- Pinned messages
- Reactions
- Polls

Message Status Availability

The table outlines the availability of message statuses in Telegram.

Message Status

Availability

Sent

✅

Delivered

❌

Read

❌

Failed

❌

Messaging Window

Telegram does not have a messaging window. Once Contacts have started a chat with you, you can send messages to your Contacts anytime without any limit.

At any point, Contacts may block your Telegram bot. To understand further on the implications of this, refer to the FAQ here.

Broadcasts

You can send an unlimited number of broadcasts to your Contacts. Learn more on how to send a broadcast here.

At any point, Contacts may block your Telegram bot. To understand further on the implications of this, refer to the FAQ here.

Rate Limits

A rate limit is the number of API calls an app or user can make within a given time period defined by the channel. Learn more about the rate limits for this channel here.

FAQ and Troubleshooting

Can I start a conversation with a Telegram Contact?

Telegram bot rules say Contacts must message you first before you can message them back. Learn how to encourage users to start a chat here.

Can I receive files via Telegram?

Yes, but the maximum file size for a Telegram bot to download is 20 MB. If the Contact sends a video bigger than 20 MB, the bot will not be able to download the file.

Do you support Telegram Groups?

Telegram Groups are not supported yet, you can upvote our feature request here.

What should I do if I have lost my Telegram bot token?

If you have lost your Telegram bot token for some reason or if your existing token has been compromised, you can use the token command to generate a new one.

/token

How do I create a QR Code for my Telegram account?

  1. On the respond.io platform, click Settings > Growth Widget > + Add Widget.
  2. Select QR Code > click Create Widget.
  3. Select Telegram as the QR code type > Select the connected Telegram Channel for which you want to create the QR code.
  4. Click Download and select the size of the QR code you want to save.

Learn more about Growth Widgets here.

Alternatively, you can create a QR code through the Telegram mobile app.

  1. Tap Settings in the menu of your Telegram app.
  2. Tap the QR code icon on the top right corner.
  3. Choose a background design that you like and tap the Share QR Code button to share it with your customers.

How do I change my Telegram bot profile photo?

  1. On your Telegram app, search for BotFather.
  2. In the chat box, enter /mybots to bring up a list of your bots.
  3. Select your bot > Edit Bot > Edit Botpic.
  4. Send your new profile photo.

How do I change my Telegram bot name?

  1. On your Telegram app, search for BotFather.
  2. In the chat box, enter/mybots to bring up a list of your bots.
  3. Select your bot > Edit Bot > Edit Name.
  4. Enter and send a new name for your bot.

Feeling stuck? Do not fear.

Need assistance? Contact us for support. Help is here!

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