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How to Use Telegram on a PC: Bringing Convenience to Messaging

Telegram is a popular messaging app that offers end-to-end encrypted chats, group messaging, media sharing, and more. While Telegram is available as a mobile app for Android and iOS devices, you can also use Telegram on your Windows or Mac computer. Using Telegram on a PC brings some major conveniences over just using the mobile app.

Benefits of Using Telegram on a Computer

There are a few key reasons why you may want to use Telegram on your desktop or laptop:

  • Larger screen – Reading and typing messages is easier on a large monitor compared to a small phone screen. This makes Telegram on PC ideal for having long conversations.
  • Easier file sharing – Sending large files like photos, videos, or documents through Telegram on your computer makes the process faster and simpler. You can quickly access files on your computer rather than having to transfer from your phone.
  • Multi-tasking – With Telegram open on your desktop, you can easily switch between Telegram conversations and your other desktop apps. This allows you to seamlessly chat while also getting work done.
  • Synced message history – Your Telegram account has the same message history across mobile and desktop apps. So you can start a chat on your phone and pick up right where you left off on your computer.

Downloading Telegram Desktop

Telegram offers desktop apps for both Windows and macOS. To get started, go to the Telegram website and download the desktop app for your operating system:

The download and installation process only takes a minute or two. Once installed, the Telegram desktop app works and looks nearly identical to the mobile version. You use your existing Telegram account, so there is no new signup process.

Logging In and Setting Up Telegram Desktop

To log into Telegram desktop, open the app and click Log In. You will then be prompted to enter your phone number. Telegram will send an authentication code via SMS to verify your number. After entering the code, your message history and existing Telegram data will sync.

Once logged in, take a moment to setup notifications and other preferences:

  • Enable notifications – Click the Settings icon > Notifications > Enable notification sounds and banners. This way you won’t miss important messages.
  • Set up auto-start – Enable the “Start Telegram when my computer starts” setting under Settings > System > Enable auto-start. This automatically launches Telegram when you boot your computer.
  • Pick a theme – Telegram on desktop has several built-in dark and light color themes to choose from. Pick one that’s easy on your eyes.

With notifications enabled and your theme set, Telegram on desktop will now function just like the mobile app. You can conduct encrypted chats, join groups, share media, and take advantage of desktop conveniences like universal search and tabs.

Key Features of Telegram Desktop

Now that you are logged into Telegram desktop, take advantage of some of the standout features that make the desktop experience unique:

Universal Search

The search bar at the top of the window lets you instantly search through all of your Telegram chats and contacts. Just start typing and matching messages, media, files, groups, and people will automatically populate. Universal search makes finding anything in your Telegram account a breeze.

Tabs

Unlike the mobile app, Telegram desktop lets you open multiple chats in tabs across the top of the screen. Click any chat or group and it will open in a new tab, allowing you to seamlessly jump between conversations.

Stickers and GIFs

Telegram’s enormous library of stickers and GIFs can be easily accessed on desktop. Click the smiley face icon when typing a message to browse stickers or GIFs without having to leave your chat window. This makes sharing visual content fast and convenient.

File Sharing

Send any file type up to 2GB in size through Telegram desktop. Simple drag and drop files from your computer into open Telegram chats or groups. The file sharing process is significantly faster on desktop versus mobile.

Third-Party Bots

One advantage of Telegram on desktop is easy access to third-party bots that let you do everything from check weather reports to translate languages right inside your chats. Search for and add bots without having to leave Telegram desktop.

Best Practices When Using Telegram on Your Computer

To get the most out of the Telegram desktop experience, keep these tips in mind:

  • Enable night mode – Under Settings > Appearance, switch on night mode. This changes interfaces and chats to a darker color for easier viewing at night.
  • Use multiple accounts – Run two separate Telegram accounts side-by-side on desktop. Click + New Account to quickly add work, personal, or other logins without logging out.
  • Organize with folders – Desktop folders help organize different Telegram chats and groups. Right click on any chat or group to file it away into a custom folder.
  • Pin important chats – Pin your most important Telegram chats and groups to the top of your desktop window for quick access. Never lose track of priority conversations.
  • Set up desktop notifications – Under Settings > Notifications, enable sounds and banners for Telegram desktop notifications. You’ll never miss a message even when Telegram isn’t in focus.

Conclusion

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