Telegram to begin monetizing the app as it approaches 500M users

I’ve been wondering how Telegram would survive after their token fell apart. I’ll admit, I didn’t expect ad-based revenue to be the solution. It makes sense in theory, but at the same time it might be a hard sell for existing users. Most people I know that use Telegram use it because it’s not WhatsApp. They appreciate privacy. While Telegram promises to protect privacy while serving ads, that’s become harder and harder for companies to stick to.

Then again, network effects. Telegram could probably do anything they want and still retain a sizeable chunk of their user base because of their current network effect.

Strange that they don't mention offering a paid (ad-free) version.

I'd be willing to pay money for a quality product, but would not consider putting adware on my devices.

if they can prove it works then whatsapp is next. surprised FB didn’t put ads in whatsapp yet