Introduction
The messaging app landscape is witnessing a seismic shift as Telegram joins WhatsApp in the elite club of platforms boasting over 1 billion monthly active users (MAUs). Announced by founder Pavel Durov in March 2025, Telegram’s milestone cements its position as the world’s second-largest messaging app (excluding China’s WeChat) and highlights its explosive growth in user engagement and profitability.

Telegram’s Unprecedented User Growth
Telegram has officially crossed 1 billion MAUs, marking a 43% increase from its 700 million MAUs in 2024. This growth is fueled by its focus on privacy, encryption, and innovative features like large group chats and channels. Unlike competitors, Telegram’s user base spans diverse regions, including Brazil, Russia, and the Middle East, where its anonymity and security tools resonate strongly.

Skyrocketing Engagement and Profitability
Users now spend an average of 41 minutes daily on Telegram, opening the app 21 times per day. This high engagement is paired with a revenue surge: Telegram reported a $547 million profit in 2024, a testament to its monetization strategies like premium subscriptions and ad integrations.

The WhatsApp vs. Telegram Rivalry
Despite WhatsApp’s dominance (20 billion MAUs globally), Telegram positions itself as a superior alternative. Durov criticizes WhatsApp for “imitating Telegram’s innovations” while emphasizing Telegram’s independence and profitability. WhatsApp’s strength lies in its ubiquity—80% penetration in markets like India and Brazil—but Telegram’s privacy-first approach attracts users seeking alternatives.

Future Innovations and Market Expansion
Telegram plans to enhance AI-driven features and expand its ecosystem with mini-apps and payment integrations. Its next goal? Challenging WhatsApp’s leadership in emerging markets like Southeast Asia and Africa, where messaging app adoption is still growing.

Conclusion
Telegram’s rise to 1 billion MAUs underscores a shifting preference toward secure, feature-rich messaging platforms. As competition intensifies, its focus on innovation and independence will likely drive further disruption in the global messaging app arena.