Active users
WhatsApp. The platform has reached approximately 2 billion monthly active users, making it the most used messaging app in the world. This widespread diffusion represents both a competitive advantage and a strong incentive for adoption, creating a "network effect" that continues to attract new users.
Telegram. With an estimated 800-900 million monthly active users, Telegram has built a substantial and rapidly growing user base. Although smaller than WhatsApp in terms of numbers, its growth has been steady, especially during periods of privacy controversies on other platforms.
History and development
WhatsApp. Founded in 2009 by Brian Acton and Jan Koum, WhatsApp was born from a vision of creating a more efficient and less expensive alternative to SMS. Its acquisition by Facebook (now Meta) in 2014 for about $19 billion marked a major turning point, bringing more resources but also raising new questions about privacy.
Telegram. Launched in 2013 by brothers Nikolai and Pavel Durov (founders of the Russian social network VK), Telegram was born with a strong focus on security and privacy. The platform was developed in response to concerns about government surveillance, positioning itself as a secure alternative in an increasingly monitored digital landscape.
Integration with Artificial Intelligence
WhatsApp. WhatsApp has integrated Meta AI, an AI-powered assistant developed by Meta. This assistant allows users to ask questions, get real-time information, and receive assistance directly within chats. Meta AI is available for free to all WhatsApp users, although some advanced features may be limited in certain regions. The integration offers search, image generation, and contextual assistance, while maintaining end-to-end encryption in conversations. For businesses, WhatsApp Business also offers additional AI tools for customer service automation through customizable chatbots, available with paid plans based on message volume.
Telegram. Telegram stands out for its more open approach to AI through its bot platform. Unlike WhatsApp’s centralized approach, Telegram allows for the integration of numerous third-party AI assistants through its bot ecosystem. Users can access templated bots like ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, and more. Telegram has also launched its own native AI assistant called “Telegram Mini App,” which offers similar functionality to Meta AI. While many AI bots on Telegram are free with limitations, premium versions (often subscribed directly through their developers) offer advanced features, faster responses, and higher usage limits. This decentralized structure offers more versatility but requires the user to navigate a more complex ecosystem of AI options.
Download and installation
Android: Google Play Store
iOS: App Store
PC/Mac: WhatsApp Desktop
Web: WhatsApp Web
Telegram
Android: Google Play Store
iOS: App Store
PC/Mac/Linux: Telegram Desktop
Web: Telegram Web
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Main advantages and limitations
Advantages:
Security : Default end-to-end encryption for all private conversations, ensuring that only the sender and recipient can read the messages.
Simplicity : Intuitive user interface that makes the app accessible even to less technologically savvy users.
Call Quality : Excellent audio and video quality in calls, with support for up to 32 participants in group voice calls.
Business Integration : Well-developed WhatsApp Business features for small and large businesses.
Cloud Backup : Integration with Google Drive (Android) and iCloud (iOS) for chat backup.
Limits:
Phone Number Dependency : A phone number is required for registration and use.
Device Limit : Until recently, it could only be used on one device at a time (now supports up to 4 connected devices).
File Size : 100MB limit for shared files.
Limited Customization : Relatively limited interface customization options.
Privacy : Membership in Meta raises concerns about sharing metadata.
Telegram
Advantages:
Multi-Device : Full synchronized access on all devices simultaneously.
Advanced Channels and Groups : Support for groups up to 200,000 members and channels with unlimited audience.
Bots & Automation : Advanced bot ecosystem that enables automation and integrated services.
File Size : Share files up to 4GB.
Cloud Storage : All messages are stored in the cloud, accessible from any device.
Advanced Features : Built-in photo/video editor, polls, quizzes, custom backgrounds.
Limits:
Optional Encryption : End-to-end encryption is only available in "secret chats", not by default.
Less widespread : In some countries, finding contacts who use Telegram can be more difficult.
Battery consumption : Tendency towards higher power consumption on some devices.
Funding Structure : Less clear business model than other platforms.
Content Moderation : A more liberal approach to moderation has led to controversy in some countries.
Global Connectivity with eSIM Unlimited BLIVALE
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Applications in professional contexts
WhatsApp Business. Developed specific tools for businesses, including product catalogs, automatic messages, and statistics. Particularly effective for small and medium-sized businesses that need direct communication with customers. The WhatsApp Business API also allows integrations with CRM and management systems.
Telegram for organizations. It excels at managing large communities and distributing content. Telegram channels have become powerful tools for media, influencers, and organizations to reach large audiences. The platform also offers tools for creating automated services through bots.
Geographical restrictions
WhatsApp. Blocked or restricted in:
China (part of the "Great Firewall")
Iran (periodically)
Syria (restricted access)
North Korea
United Arab Emirates (VoIP Call Restrictions)
Telegram. Has faced restrictions in:
Russia (partial blockade, later lifted)
Iran (during political protests)
China
Pakistan (temporarily)
Belarus (during demonstrations)
These blocks often stem from Telegram’s refusal to provide encryption keys or backdoors to governments.
Creating value for different types of users
WhatsApp for Individuals. Creates value through ease of use and ubiquity. For many, it is the primary way to communicate with family and colleagues, effectively replacing traditional SMS and calls. Default encryption provides peace of mind without requiring additional configuration.
Telegram for communities and innovators. Offers superior value for those looking for advanced features and community management. The open API and bot platform have created an ecosystem of innovative services, from payment systems to automated information services to smart home integrations.
Future prospects
Both platforms are evolving rapidly, with WhatsApp rolling out features historically associated with Telegram (cross-device, reactions to messages) and Telegram continuing to innovate with features like group video calling and monetization for content creators.
The choice between the two ultimately depends on the specific needs of the user: the simplicity and widespread nature of WhatsApp or the versatility and advanced features of Telegram.
Conclusion
In the instant messaging landscape, WhatsApp and Telegram represent two distinct yet complementary approaches to modern digital communication. WhatsApp, with its intuitive interface and widespread adoption, continues to dominate the market by offering an accessible and familiar experience. Telegram, on the other hand, stands out for its flexibility and innovative features, attracting users seeking greater control and versatility. Both platforms continue to evolve, influencing each other and adapting to the ever-changing needs of global users. In an increasingly interconnected world, the ability of these apps to facilitate instant and feature-rich communications, especially when combined with global connectivity solutions such as eSIMs, makes them indispensable tools in both personal and professional life. The competition between these platforms, far from being a zero-sum game, is elevating the entire digital communication ecosystem, with tangible benefits for end users in terms of innovation, security and usability.
