When it comes to privacy on the internet, things can get pretty murky.
Among the many reasons, is because the internet requires parties that involve to exchange information in one way or another. How can one preserve privacy, but still allowed to pass on information through third-parties? One of the ways, is by using blockchain, and this is what Telegram is doing.
Users of the popular messaging app has rolled out a feature that allows users to create accounts using blockchain-based anonymous numbers, as opposed to using phone numbers.
Telegram already hides people’s private phone numbers from non-added users on the app. But to welcome "a new era of privacy," users can log in "using blockchain-powered anonymous numbers available on the Fragment platform."
Fragment is a decentralized auction platform founded by Telegram creator Pavel Durov.
Fragment sells usernames and anonymous numbers that are only compatible with Telegram. Purchases can be made directly on Telegram via Telegram’s affiliated token The Open Network (TON).
Upon purchasing a number, people can then use these private numbers to receive verification code texts after signing in to Telegram.
The reason for this approach, is not only because blockchain phone numbers can be totally anonymous, but also because Telegram has become a popular app for cryptocurrency enthusiasts.
Through the update, Telegram also starts allowing users to auto-delete timers on messages in new chats.
The messaging platform initially introduced self-destructing messages way back in 2013. Using the feature, users can delete any messages they send or receive for both sides without leaving a trace, and can also set up auto-delete timers to clean up individual chats after a period of time.
This time, Telegram is expanding that, by allowing users to control their "digital footprint into the future."
With the update, users can set a global auto-delete timer to automatically remove messages in all new chats.
Existing chats will not be affected, but users can easily expand their auto-delete settings to any of them from a new menu that can found in Settings.
"The timer will be automatically applied to all your new chats with users – regardless of who starts them – and to all new groups you create," Telegram explained.
On top of that, Telegram has also made it easier to set up auto-delete in small private groups.
After that, there is what it's called the Topics 2.0'
"Our previous update gave admins of large groups the option to organize discussions into topics, merging classic internet forums with the latest in messaging technology. Today, topics become even more powerful – and are now available for groups from 100 members or more," said Telegram.
Here, groups with topics open in a two-column mode, so users can quickly access their other chats. To switch to the latest topic straight from the chat list, users can simply tap the new button in the preview.
Then, groups also also having a default topic called General, which holds the group's service messages and pre-topic message history. This topic is available for all group members so they can find older messages, but again, it all depends on the admins of the groups to rename the topic or hide it from the main list.
After that, Telegram has also introduced an "aggressive anti-spam."
Being one of the most popular chat platforms, Telegram is a target for spammers. With the update, admins of groups with over 200 members can choose to "unleash the full proactive power of Telegram's own algorithms" by turning on the 'Aggressive' mode for the automated spam filters.
Privacy and security aside, Telegram has added a temporary QR codes for users to use, allowing them to quickly connect with people around them.
"Now you can generate a temporary QR code if you don't have a username and are hiding your phone number from everyone. Scanning the code will let people instantly add you as a contact without knowing your phone number," said Telegram.
And for the aesthetics, Telegram is giving its iOS users an Emoji search feature.
This feature is already available for users on Android.
Speaking of emojis, Telegram artists have put together 10 more custom emoji packs, which are only available to Premium. This gives them even more ways to express themselves in messages, reactions and statuses.
And again, since this is yet another Telegram update, Telegram is adding even more interactive emojis.
Lastly, users on Android have a redesigned Storage Usage page, which is now similar to how it appears for iOS users.
Additionally, Android developers added support for opening Live Locations in third-party map apps and improved the design of loading elements like messages in chats, profile pictures and live locations.
These features are part of Telegram's 9.2 update launched on December 6th.