Delhi, 27th August 2024: The popular messaging app Telegram, which has over 5 million users in India and more than 1 billion downloads on the Play Store, faces a potential ban following the recent arrest of its CEO and founder, Pavel Durov, in Paris. The Indian government is investigating whether Telegram is violating any local regulations. If banned, many users could be significantly impacted, as the app offers several unique features that are not available on its competitor, WhatsApp.

One standout feature of Telegram is the Secret Chat option, which provides an added layer of privacy. Unlike normal chats, Secret Chats do not allow screenshots to be captured, ensuring greater confidentiality. Although WhatsApp allows users to lock private chats, it lacks a dedicated Secret Chat feature.

Telegram also permits users to maintain multiple profile pictures within a single account, enabling greater personalization. In contrast, WhatsApp restricts users to a single profile picture.

Additionally, the “People Nearby” feature on Telegram allows users to connect with others nearby based on location access. WhatsApp, however, requires users to have a phone number or scan a QR code to add new contacts.

Another advantage of Telegram is its customizable app icons, where users can choose from a variety of free and paid options such as default, vintage, and premium icons. In comparison, WhatsApp offers only one icon for its users.

Furthermore, Telegram’s premium subscription service includes a voice-to-text conversion feature, allowing users to read voice messages. WhatsApp is reportedly in the process of developing a similar feature, but it has not yet been implemented.