​Telegram has rolled out a groundbreaking feature in its Android beta (v11.9.1): encrypted group calls supporting up to 100 participants. This update, currently in testing, reinforces Telegram’s commitment to privacy and scalability in real-time communication. With over 1 billion monthly active users, Telegram continues to challenge rivals like WhatsApp by prioritizing security and user control.

​​1. How Encrypted Group Calls Work​​

The new feature allows users to initiate group calls via the “Start New Call” option, generating a shareable link in the format t.me/call. Participants can join via the link, with admins retaining control over adding new users based on privacy settings. Unlike standard voice chats, these calls are protected by end-to-end encryption (E2E), ensuring only participants can access the content.

​​2. Privacy at the Forefront​​

Telegram’s E2E encryption, previously limited to secret chats and one-on-one calls, now extends to group calls. This means no third party—including Telegram’s servers—can intercept audio or video streams. Users can toggle microphones and cameras individually, balancing engagement with privacy.

​​3. Testing Phase Insights​​

During the beta phase, Telegram is refining features like call stability and cross-device synchronization. Early adopters report seamless integration with existing group structures, though some note minor latency issues in large calls. The final release aims to support screen sharing and live captions.

​​4. Competitive Edge in a Crowded Market​​

With WhatsApp capping group calls at 32 participants and Signal focusing on smaller groups, Telegram’s 100-person capacity positions it as a leader for remote teams and communities. Its encryption standards also surpass Zoom and Microsoft Teams, which lack default E2E for large meetings.

​​5. Implications for Global Users​​

This feature is particularly transformative for regions with limited access to secure communication tools. Activists, journalists, and businesses in censored environments can now collaborate safely. Telegram’s growth in emerging markets—where its user base surged by 40% in 2024—aligns with this rollout.

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Telegram’s encrypted group calls mark a milestone in democratizing secure communication. By blending scalability with ironclad privacy, Telegram isn’t just catching up to competitors—it’s redefining expectations for digital trust.