Telegram marked its 11th anniversary on August 14. 

Founder Pavel Durov recently reported on his Telegram channel that the company had amassed nearly one billion users since its launch in August 2013 without allocating funds to marketing efforts.

Along with this milestone, Telegram announced new features to enhance content creator monetization and user engagement.

Telegram Creator Tools and Revenue Streams

The update introduces “Star Reactions,” allowing users to support channel owners directly. Content creators receive 100% of these star contributions, which they can convert into Toncoin cryptocurrency or use for subsidized advertising on the platform.

Complementing this, Telegram unveiled “Star Subscriptions,” enabling content creators to generate invite links for paid monthly access to exclusive channels. This feature facilitates the creation of VIP content spaces, early access media, and premium livestreams.

The platform extends its content monetization capabilities to bots and Telegram Business accounts, allowing them to post paid photos and videos. This expansion aims to foster automated channels and sustainable services within the Telegram ecosystem.

Telegram is committed to content creator support by charging “next to zero commission when developers or channel owners use their stars to receive rewards in Toncoin.”

Additionally, the company offers a 30% discount on advertising when content creators reinvest their stars as part of channel promotion strategies.

A new “Super Channels” feature allows channel administrators to post as their profiles or other channels they manage, blending characteristics of channels and groups. The change provides more flexibility in content presentation and community engagement.

The company reports implementing 17 major updates over the past year, introducing features such as Stories, Quotes, Profiles, Recommendations, and a Giveaway Platform. 

These additions reflect Telegram’s ongoing efforts to diversify its functionality and maintain user growth.