With version 8.4. Messenger Telegram delivers the twelfth major update this year. The WhatsApp alternative offers new functions such as online translation, a spoiler text function and new options for direct reactions. The QR codes are also becoming more colorful.
A translation function can be activated under “Language” in the settings menu. For example, as soon as a foreign-language message is posted in public groups, the translation can be displayed directly via the context menu. In the settings you can also specify which languages should not be translated.
Fast reactions without answers possible
With the new version, quick reactions are also possible without having to answer explicitly. By tapping a specific message, you can now directly leave an emoji as a reply. If you tap twice, a thumbs-up is left immediately, if you tap once (Android) or press and hold the message (iOS), different emojis can be selected. The “quick reaction” function can be found in settings / stickers and emojis (iOS) or in settings / chat settings (Android).
In private conversations the reactions are active by default, in public groups and channels it is up to the admins to enable the function. There they can also select what is possible as a reaction and what is not.
Temporarily hide an answer with spoilers
Another innovation is the spoiler function. For example, if you don’t want to reveal a little secret or the solution to a joke right away, the corresponding text can be hidden. By marking the text passage and activating “Spoiler” in the formatting menu, a kind of snow flurry can be seen in the message instead of the letters, which hides the content. The recipient has to tap the first to read the hidden text. The function is active in the chat, the chat list and in the notifications.
(Image: Screenshot Android)
QR codes can now also be created for users, groups, channels and bots and distributed in different colors and patterns. In addition, seven emojis have been equipped with new animations. The desktop app for macOS also received a thorough renovation. The context menus have been revised and new shortcuts have been added. In addition, the menu items were animated.
The messenger also received many visual innovations. But they are unlikely to change the fact that it remains controversial in view of the radicalization of individual groups, which can be observed especially on Telegram, as well as security problems among security experts and civil rights activists.
(mawi)