How to Build a Messaging App Like Telegram From Scratch?

Telegram began as a simple idea by two brothers, Pavel and Nikolai Durov. They wanted to create a messaging app that was fast, reliable, and accessible from anywhere in the world! 

Fast forward to today, and Telegram has seen more than 700 million active users while becoming a thriving place for communities, creators, and businesses. For these reasons, many businesses today want to build a messaging app like Telegram and generate billions in revenue.

The demand for secure, real-time messaging platforms is still growing fast. More brands and entrepreneurs are now choosing to build a messaging app like Telegram to create their own thriving communities, increase user engagement, and unlock new revenue streams.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through every crucial step of messaging app development from product strategy and feature planning to Telegram-like app development cost, security layers, tech stack, and smart launch strategies.

Telegram’s Business Model Canvas: Understanding the Core Concept

While most messaging platforms followed familiar paths, Telegram created its own playbook. Instead of chasing features users already had, it focused on what truly mattered—speed, privacy, scale, and trust. If you plan to build a messaging app like Telegram, understanding this foundation gives your platform a real edge.

Top 3 Reasons Why You Need to Invest in Telegram-Like Messaging App Development

The global messaging app market is moving faster than ever before. Statista estimates that the mobile messaging app users globally is likely to increase from 2.7 billion in 2023 to more than 3.5 billion by 2026. This high growth rate proves that the demand for texting is on the rise. If you are planning to create an app similar to Telegram, it’s the perfect time. Telegram itself is a strong example of how a messaging platform can scale globally while maintaining privacy and speed.  Let’s talk about compelling reasons why you should invest in building a messaging app like Telegram:

1. Increasing User Expectations for Privacy and Security

Privacy is no longer optional. Studies show that over 80% of users are more likely to use apps that prioritise end-to-end encryption and data protection. Apps like Telegram and Signal have thrived because they put users in control of their information. If you plan to build a messaging app like Telegram or create a chat app like Telegram, implementing strong security features is essential to gain user trust and retention.

2. Monetisation Opportunities Are Growing

The revenue potential for messaging apps is expanding rapidly. The global messaging app market is projected to exceed $150 billion by 2030, and platforms like Telegram are already monetising through Premium subscriptions, in-app purchases, sponsored messages, and business integrations. For businesses looking to develop an app like Telegram or WhatsApp, these diverse monetisation strategies make Telegram clone app development not just a product investment but a strong business opportunity.

3. Niche and Regional Apps Are Growing Rapidly

Geographic and niche messaging applications are trending these days. For instance, Botim expanded rapidly in the Middle East by emphasising video calls, where WhatsApp calls were limited. Likewise, India’s Arattai Messenger hit 5 million downloads within days. This shows the potential to create an app like Botim or Telegram that is customised for local requirements. When you plan your Telegram clone app development or you want to develop an app like Slack, investing in this space today gives you a jumpstart in this burgeoning field.

Step-by-Step Development Process to Build an App Like Telegram

Building a messaging app doesn’t have to be complicated. With a clear plan, you can develop an app like Telegram efficiently and set it up for growth. Here’s a practical roadmap for Telegram-like app development:

Step 1: Define Your Product Vision and Target Audience

Start by asking: What problem will your app solve? Who will use it? Are you targeting communities, businesses, or a global audience? Understanding your users early helps shape the features, design, and monetisation. This is a key first step if you want to build a messaging app like Telegram or video chat app like Zoom that people actually want to use.

Step 2: Build Wireframes and a Prototype

Wireframes are simple sketches showing your app’s screens and flow. Prototypes let you test your ideas before writing code. Following this Telegram-like app development guide helps you spot problems early, saves time, and avoids costly changes later.

Step 3: Develop a Fully-Featured Messaging App

Don’t hold back—build all the core and advanced features at once: real-time messaging, group chats, channels, media sharing, notifications, file transfers, voice and video calls, and user profiles. A fully-featured approach lets you build an app like Telegram iOS or Android that immediately impresses users and captures market attention. Including robust community and moderation tools ensures your platform works for both casual users and large groups.

Step 4: Implement Security and Privacy

Security is the backbone of any messaging app. Integrate end-to-end encryption, secure cloud storage, optional self-destructing messages, and two-factor authentication. Users only trust platforms where their conversations are private. A strong privacy-first approach is essential when you develop an app like Telegram or WhatsApp, and it helps build a loyal user base from launch.

Step 5: Scalable Architecture for Millions of Users

Plan for growth from day one. Use cloud-based infrastructure, distributed servers, and optimised backend architecture to handle millions of simultaneous users without lag. Real-time protocols like WebSockets and MQTT ensure instant messaging, even at scale. This makes your Telegram clone app development ready for global adoption.

Step 6: QA Testing and Performance Optimisation

Test your messaging app on multiple devices, operating systems, and network conditions. Identify and fix bugs, crashes, and latency issues. Rigorous QA ensures your app delivers a professional, high-quality experience, which is essential when you build a messaging app like Telegram.

Step 7: Launch and Continuous Enhancements

Go live with a full-featured app that already includes real-time messaging, group chats, voice/video calls, channels, bots, and premium features. Monitor user engagement, collect feedback, and optimise features regularly. Continuous updates ensure your platform remains competitive, secure, and engaging in the messaging app development landscape.

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Key Features You Need to Develop an App Like Telegram

Creating a messaging platform that competes with Telegram requires more than just basic chat functions. Users today expect speed, privacy, versatility, and personalization. Here’s what to include when you build a messaging app like Telegram:

1. Real-Time Messaging and Group Chats

Instant messaging is the heart of any chat app. Over 75% of messaging app users say they value real-time communication above all else. Features like large group chats, threaded messages, reactions, and emojis keep users interacting longer.

2. Voice and Video Communication

60% of users expect HD call support in a messaging app. Group calls, screen sharing, and cross-device support make your app versatile. These features are essential if you want to build a chatting app like Telegram that can compete with established platforms.

3. End-to-End Encryption

Studies show that over 80% of users are more likely to trust apps with strong encryption. Implement end-to-end encryption, secure key management, and optional self-destructing messages.

4. Cloud Syncing and Multi-Device Use

Cloud syncing makes it easy for users to switch between devices without losing media. This is imperative for any iOS and Android chat app developer exploring creating an app similar to Telegram.

5. Channels, Bots, and Communities

Telegram loves communities. Add broadcasting channels, bot-automated responses, and groups for user interactivity. These add-on features help you create a chat app like Chatango or Telegram for both social and commercial communications.

6. File Sharing and Media Compression

Allows users to send documents, PDFs, audio, videos and images. For cosmetics, every document is automatically compressed before sharing to make it easier to use, even for large files.

7. Push Notifications and Status Updates

Users want to receive real-time notifications for new messages, mentions, and “online” status updates. Custom push notifications are another way to improve the user experience and retain users.

8. Message Search and Archiving

Enable search, bookmarks, and archiving features to let users easily find old messages. Effective chat history management makes your app feel slick and professional.

9. Stickers, GIFs, and Emojis

Visual messaging increases engagement. Add stickers, GIFs, and emojis to make conversations fun and expressive, especially appealing to younger generations.

10. Multi-Language Support

Worldwide users anticipate multilingual support. Offering multiple languages and input methods ensures your app can serve people beyond a single geographic location.

Choosing the Best Tech Stack for a Telegram Clone App

When building a messaging app like Telegram, your technology stack is the first step. The technology stack you select will determine how quickly, safely, and scalable your messaging application will be in the future. A strong foundation will keep your platform running as fast as the number of users increases and eventually will pay back to the messaging app development. Here’s a simple outline to help with developing a Telegram-like app.

A. Backend: Node.js, Go, Python 

The backend fundamentally drives the business model of chat apps.  Where all connections, users, messages sent and received, and server load are handled. Node.js, as a backend technology stack, is built for applications that require sending millions of messages a second. With Node.js, you can handle many connections without fail if you want to develop a messaging app like WhatsApp or Telegram. 

Go is lightweight, packs a punch in responsiveness, and is excellent for a scaled platform with tens of millions of users without any slowdown. Python is extremely versatile if one wanted to add AI-driven features like smart replies, chat moderation, or personalised suggestions. The right backend is crucial if you wish to build a chat application like Telegram that stays fast with high traffic.

B. Frontend: Flutter, React Native, Swift, Kotlin 

The frontend people use daily. Smooth design and performance are paramount. Flutter and React Native let you deploy a single codebase to both iOS and Android, saving time and money on iOS and Android chat app development. Swift (iOS) and Kotlin (Android) provide complete native control, so you can develop an app like Telegram iOS or develop an app like Telegram Android with seamless animations and smooth transitions. A well-designed frontend makes your platform more user-friendly and easier to maintain. 

C. Database & Storage: PostgreSQL, Redis, Firebase, AWS

PostgreSQL and Redis are speedy for read/write operations and real-time messaging. Your database and storage configuration determine how quickly messages are delivered and synchronised between devices. Firebase and AWS offer cloud storage, multi-device sync, and scalability, which are crucial if you plan to create an app like Telegram at economical prices. This synergy provides a responsive user experience while making Telegram clone app development within budget.

D. Security: End-to-End Encryption, 2FA, Secure APIs

Security is paramount for any messaging app. End-to-end encryption keeps conversations private. Two-factor authentication (2FA) provides an additional layer of security. Secure APIs protect sensitive data even under heavy traffic. Security is given high priority if you wish to create an app like Botim or Telegram that has user trust.

E. Real-Time Protocols: WebSockets & MQTT 

Instant messaging is why users keep returning. WebSockets provide an open channel between the server and app, causing messages to seem instantaneous. MQTT is lightweight and ideal for scaling a Telegram-like app development platform without hindering performance. These protocols are necessary if you aim to develop a messaging app similar to Discord or Slack.

New development tools ensure your app works well and scales without technical debt. These tools make coding, updates, and cross-platform maintenance easier, enabling you to develop an app like Telegram iOS or Android fast and reliably.

How Much Does It Cost to Create an App Like Telegram or WhatsApp?

The cost of developing the Telegram app depends on multiple factors, including features, platforms, design complexity, security, and the development team you choose. When planning messaging app development, it’s important to align features, timelines, and budgets. Costs vary depending on whether you want a basic, mid-level, or fully-featured app. Here’s a clear breakdown:

• Choose Your App Level

Decide if you want a basic chat app, a mid-level Telegram-like app, or a full-scale messaging platform. This helps estimate both cost and timeline accurately.

• Plan Features According to Your Budget

Core features like messaging, group chats, and media sharing are standard for iOS and Android chat app development. Adding channels, bots, or premium tools moves your app into mid or advanced tiers.

• Factor in Security and Scalability

End-to-end encryption, secure cloud storage, and multi-device sync are essential if you want to build a messaging app like Telegram that users trust. These features influence both cost and development complexity.

• Consider Long-Term Maintenance

A messaging app isn’t a one-time project. Continuous updates, server management, and security patches are critical for keeping your platform reliable and secure.

• Budget Wisely for Full-Scale Success

Starting with a basic or mid-level app is cost-effective, but planning for a full-featured Telegram clone app development from the start ensures you can scale, add revenue-generating tools, and capture users worldwide without rebuilding from scratch.

Factors That Influence the Cost of Developing an App Like Telegram

Building a messaging app is about balancing features, performance, and user expectations. Several key factors affect the cost when you create a chat app like Discord or Telegram:

• Features

The more features you add, the higher the cost. Voice and video calls, group chats, channels, bots, and file sharing all require extra development time. Advanced tools help you build an app like Telegram iOS or Android that engages users and keeps them coming back.

• Platform

Deciding between iOS, Android, or both impacts pricing. Developing build an app like Telegram iOS and build an app like Telegram Android natively ensures top performance, while cross-platform frameworks like Flutter or React Native can save some cost.

• Design and User Experience

A clean, intuitive interface is essential. Custom UX/UI increases cost but improves engagement and retention. When you develop an app like Telegram or create a messaging app like Discord, a smooth user experience is non-negotiable.

• Security

Privacy drives trust. End-to-end encryption, secure storage, two-factor authentication, and regulatory compliance add development effort but are critical for Telegram-like app development. Users will only stay if they feel safe.

• Team and Services

Working with experienced iOS and Android developers or outsourcing chat app development services affects cost and quality. Skilled teams ensure your chat app development is fast, reliable, and ready for millions of users.

Bonus Read- How Much Does it Cost to Build an App like Snapchat [Roadmap + Costing]

How to Make Money From Messaging Apps Like Telegram??

If you want to build a messaging app like Telegram, understanding how it generates revenue is key. Telegram started as a free, ad-free platform and gradually added monetisation without upsetting users. That’s a lesson for anyone looking to develop an app like Telegram.

1. Premium Subscriptions

Telegram Premium offers extra benefits to paying users. They can send bigger files, access exclusive stickers, and manage larger groups and channels. The core app stays free, but these power users provide a predictable revenue stream. Over 15 million people worldwide have already subscribed to Telegram Premium. If you’re considering developing a Telegram clone app, introducing tiered subscriptions is a reliable way to earn without excluding casual users.

2. Sponsored Messages Without Intrusion

Telegram uses sponsored messages in large public channels to generate revenue. Unlike traditional ads, these appear only in channels with more than 1,000 subscribers and don’t interrupt regular conversations. This proves you can develop an app like Telegram at an affordable price and still have monetisation opportunities without annoying your audience.

3. Optional In-App Purchases

You can also earn through extras that make the app more engaging. Users might buy sticker packs, themes, or tools to improve productivity or have more fun. If you want to create a chat app like Telegram, these options encourage personalisation and help keep users active, which increases retention.

4. Business Integrations

Messaging apps are no longer just for personal use. Telegram supports business channels, bots, and automation. Offering similar features lets you attract enterprise users and open up premium business plans. This approach works if your goal is to build an app like WhatsApp aimed at professionals.

5. Data Insights and Analytics

With proper consent, anonymised data helps you improve the app and spot opportunities for revenue. You can track which features are popular, peak usage times, and engagement with premium tools. 

How to Reduce Cost When Developing a Telegram-Like App? 

Competing with Telegram doesn’t mean spending millions upfront. Smart planning can help you build an app like Telegram efficiently. Here are some cost-effective strategies to save money on development costs-

• Add Features That Stand Out

You don’t need to copy everything. Tools for communities, better media sharing, or interactive chat elements can make a difference. Following a clear Telegram-like app development guide helps your platform get noticed.

• Plan Your Monetization Early

Freemium subscriptions, in-app purchases, and business tools give you revenue without blocking access to regular users. Sponsored messages or premium options can bring recurring income if you want to develop an on-demand app with a sustainable model.

• Architecture That Scales

Your app has to handle millions of users at the same time. Cloud servers and optimized backends make iOS and Android chat app development smooth and prevent lag as your audience grows.

• Focus on UX and UI

Keep the interface simple. Notifications should be clear, chat controls easy to use, and animations subtle. Good UX ensures people enjoy using your app, which is essential if you create a chat app like Telegram that users love.

• Cost-Saving Approaches

Start with an MVP to test your idea without overspending. Outsource parts of development to experienced chat app development services teams to save time and cost. Using open-source tools for messaging and storage can also help you build an app like Telegram at affordable price without sacrificing quality.

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The Role of AI in Messaging Apps Today!

Did you know that users spend over 3 hours a month on messaging apps like Telegram, and most of that time is spent on smart, intuitive interactions? If you want to develop an app like Telegram, integrating AI can transform your platform from a simple chat tool into an intelligent assistant making everyday conversations smarter and faster.

A. Smart Conversations in Real Time

AI can make your app feel alive. From predictive text and suggested replies to automated responses in group chats, AI helps users communicate faster and more efficiently. When you create a chat app like Telegram, these features reduce friction and keep users engaged without adding complexity.

B. Enhanced Moderation and Safety

Spam, abusive content, or unwanted messages can ruin a user experience. AI-powered moderation tools automatically detect and filter inappropriate content, creating a safe space for your users to interact. This is essential if you want to build a messaging app like Telegram or WhatsApp that users trust.

C. Personalized Experiences

AI can analyze user behavior to recommend stickers, emojis, or even bots for productivity and entertainment. By offering tailored experiences, your platform encourages users to spend more time in the app, whether you build an app like Botim or Telegram.

D. Intelligent Security

AI can also enhance security by monitoring patterns, detecting suspicious logins, and preventing attacks before they occur. This makes your platform more reliable and gives users confidence when you build an app like Telegram iOS or Android.

E. Automated Support and Business Tools

AI chatbots can handle customer queries, guide users through features, or manage business interactions. For companies using your app for communication, these tools create efficiency without human intervention. Integrating AI ensures your Telegram clone app development stands out in both consumer and enterprise NFT markets.

Why Choose Apptunix for Telegram-Like App Development?

Creating a messaging app is about designing a platform users trust, enjoy, and return to every day. At Apptunix, we help businesses build a messaging app like Telegram that’s fast, secure, and designed to scale with your audience.

With 12+ years of experience and over 3,000 successful projects, Apptunix leads in messaging app development services. We guide you through every stage: validating your idea, crafting intuitive UI/UX, developing and testing, and supporting your app post-launch. Our expertise in mobile app development services ensures that your iOS and Android chat app development is smooth, secure, and optimized for real-world performance.

HiVibe, a spiritual dating app developed by Apptunix, shows how thoughtful Telegram-like app development turns an idea into a platform people love. The app now connects users globally, drives high engagement, and generates revenue at scale. 

Here’s what we offer: 

• Our mobile app development services cover everything from frontend to backend, ensuring your app is fast, secure, and capable of handling millions of users.
• We design apps that grow with your audience, whether it’s building an app like Telegram iOS or Android project.
• We prioritize UX that keeps users engaged, making your Telegram clone app development more than functional—it’s enjoyable.
• With offices in the USA, UAE, and UK, we understand different markets and user expectations, giving your app a competitive edge.

With Apptunix, Telegram-like app development is about creating a platform that scales, engages, and generates business value. Start your project to create a chat app like Telegram today and turn your vision into a messaging platform users can’t live without.

Take Action

The messaging app market is growing faster than ever, with billions of users interacting daily. If you want to build a messaging app like Telegram, now is the time to act. Starting with a minimum viable product (MVP) lets you test features, gauge user engagement, and scale your app efficiently while controlling costs.

With Apptunix’s chat app development services, you can build an app like Telegram that’s fast, secure, and intuitive. From real-time messaging and media sharing to cloud sync and scalable architecture, we ensure your platform delivers a Telegram-like app development experience that users trust and love.

Looking to create a chat app like Telegram that people love and rely on? Apptunix turns ideas into real, high-performing messaging platforms with proven mobile app development services and expertise in iOS and Android chat app development.

Start building your Telegram clone app today and deliver a messaging experience your users will love!