Telegram rolls out QR code scanner, NFT gifting options and more

The new Telegram update also brings a message search filter feature. It lets users quickly find messages from any of the chats.

Popular social messenger app Telegram has kicked off the new year 2025 with the release big update, which comes with a whole lot of new features.

Once you update to the latest version of Telegram, you will be able to send or receive digital gifts and even be able to convert them to a non-fungible token (NFT) and auction it for higher bids.

For the uninitiated, NFT is a unique digital asset that represents ownership of an item such as a digital artwork.

It should be noted that the most expensive NFT art ever sold is 'The Merge' by Pak. It reportedly fetched $91.8 million (approx. 787.35 crore)during an auction on Nifty Gateway, a popular NFT marketplace in 2021.

Telegram Collectible NFT Gifts.

The new update also brings an in-app QR code scanner. It can be used to subscribe to Telegram channels quicker than before.

On iPhone, to quickly open the in-app camera, swipe right on the main screen. On Android, tap on the camera icon in the bottom right corner.

In-app QR code scanner feature comes to Telegram.

Also, the new update brings a message search filter feature. It lets users quickly find messages from any of the chats.

Further, the Results section in the 'Chats' tab will have extra filters that let users refine the list to show results only from private chats, group chats or channels.

Telegram allows high-profile people and organisations to become verified, so users can be assured that the identity of the person on Telegram is genuine. Now, to further improve transparency on Telegram, official third-party services will now be able to assign extra verification icons to user accounts and chats.

Third-party verification service.

For instance, a restaurant has a Telegram channel. The latter, in addition to a verified badge from Telegram, can add certification from a food regulatory body. So the user can be reassured that the hotel is being regularly checked and validated by a trusted third-party certification agency and confidently go ahead to order food.

When a chat or account receives third-party verification, a small logo appears before its name. In their profile, users will be able to see a detailed explanation of their status and what it means.

And, the new update also allows users to name a chat folder with just emoji now.

Get the latest news on new launches, gadget reviews, apps, cybersecurity, and more on personal technology only on DH Tech