Fast cloud-based messaging at scale
Telegram FZ-LLC · Communication
Rating
4
275K · App Store (US)
Trust
7/9
checks passed · Jul 17, 2026
Platforms
3
iOS, Android, Windows +3
Chart
#2
Communication
Independently checked by Altapp where possible; developer-reported data is labeled as such. Last full review: Jul 17, 2026.
Open-source clients with developer-published build verification.
Clean tracker profile, but a broad permission set and mandatory phone number.
Solid engineering record with a debated default-encryption model.
Verification reflects the version listed above. Practices may change between releases. How we verify ›
Our verdict: a fast, feature-rich messenger with verifiable open-source clients — reach for Secret Chats (or Signal) whenever default end-to-end encryption is non-negotiable.
Telegram is a cloud-based messenger built around speed and scale: chats sync instantly across every device, groups hold up to 200,000 members, and file sharing goes up to 2 GB per file on the free tier. The client apps are open source and, since version 5.13, support reproducible builds on Android and iOS, so anyone can confirm the published binaries match the code on GitHub.
Its security model is pragmatic rather than absolute. Regular cloud chats are encrypted between client and server and stored encrypted in Telegram's distributed infrastructure, while true end-to-end encryption is reserved for opt-in Secret Chats on mobile. The optional Premium subscription ($4.99/month) funds the service and unlocks larger uploads, faster downloads and extra customisation without introducing third-party ads in private chats.
Speak freely, message privately
Choose Signal if
You want end-to-end encryption on by default for every chat and call, run by a nonprofit
Swiss messenger without phone numbers
Choose Threema if
You want a paid, Swiss-based messenger that works without a phone number and stores minimal metadata
Encrypted email from Switzerland
Choose Proton Mail if
You want encrypted communication over email rather than instant messaging
Yes — the pricing listed at our last review is “Free · Premium $4.99/mo”.
Altapp's independent Trust Report (last full review Jul 17, 2026) shows 7/9 checks passed, covering source verification, data & permissions, and known risks. Verification reflects the version listed on this page.
iOS 13+ · Android · Windows · macOS · Linux · Web.
Signal, Threema, Proton Mail — each with its own verified Trust Report on Altapp. See the full list ›
Developers: get the Altapp Verified badge ›