Tech News

Telegram Introduces Third-Party Verification, NFT Gifts, Message search filters, QR code scanner and more

Highlights

Telegram now supports third-party account verification for various authorities.
It introduces NFT gifts with custom backgrounds and icons that can be traded on different platforms.
Other new features include advanced message search filters for private and group chats, emoji reactions for service messages and a built-in QR code scanner.

Telegram kicked off 2025 with a set of cool features including collectable gifts, enhanced reactions, advanced message search filters, a built-in QR code scanner and more. Here’s everything we know about the new features.

Telegram will assign the official verification checkmark to chats. (Image credit – Telegram)

The latest update introduces a third-party account verification system expanding its existing program for public figures and organisations. Verified third-party authorities such as food-quality regulators or educational consortiums can now authenticate Telegram accounts.

Verified accounts will display a unique logo instead of the traditional blue checkmark.

Telegram explained, “This decentralised platform for additional verification will help prevent scams and reduce misinformation — with a unique proactive solution that sets a new safety standard for social platforms.”

To get verified, users or organisations must first pass verification and submit an application. Verified entities can use Telegram’s Bot API to assign or remove verification for affiliated accounts. These accounts will showcase the organisation’s logo on their profile, similar to how X enables organisations to verify their members.

NFT Gifts and Collectibles

Telegram users can turn gifts into NFTs with custom backgrounds and icons. (Image credit – Telegram)

Telegram now lets users turn gifts into NFTs with custom backgrounds and icons. These gifts can be sent using Telegram Stars, purchasable through the app or the Fragment site by linking a TON crypto wallet.

The messaging platform said these NFTs can be traded on various platforms. Telegram charges users to upgrade their gifts to collectables to offset blockchain transaction costs.

The platform continues to integrate cryptocurrency for monetisation including creator payments and in-app transactions for games and mini-apps.

New Features for Users

Now Telegram has advanced search filters for private chats, group chats and channels. (Image credit – Telegram)

Message Search Filters: Telegram has added advanced search filters for private chats, group chats and channels making it easier to find messages.
Emoji Reactions for Service Messages: Users can now react with emojis to service messages, such as notifications when someone joins a group.
QR Code Scanner: The app also includes a built-in QR code scanner for enhanced usability.

This feature-packed update highlights Telegram’s commitment to safety, innovation and user experience.

FAQs

Q1. How does Telegram’s third-party account verification system work?

Answer. Verified third-party authorities, such as food-quality regulators or educational consortiums can authenticate Telegram accounts. Verified accounts will display a unique logo instead of the traditional blue checkmark. Users or organisations must first pass verification and submit an application to get verified.

Q2. What are NFT gifts on Telegram and how can they be used?

Answer. Telegram now allows users to turn gifts into NFTs with custom backgrounds and icons. These gifts can be sent using Telegram Stars, purchasable through the app or the Fragment site by linking a TON crypto wallet. These NFTs can be traded on various platforms.

Q3. What new features does the latest Telegram update include for users?

Answer. The update introduces advanced message search filters for private chats, group chats, and channels, emoji reactions for service messages and a built-in QR code scanner for enhanced usability.