Official open-source desktop client for the Telegram messaging platform, built on the MTProto secure protocol.
Telegram Desktop is the official open-source desktop client for the Telegram messaging platform, providing a native application for Windows, macOS, and Linux. It enables secure messaging, file sharing, and voice/video calls using Telegram's MTProto protocol, with full synchronization across devices. The client is built on the Qt framework and offers a fast, customizable user experience.
Telegram users who prefer a dedicated desktop application for messaging, power users needing advanced features like large file transfers, and developers interested in the Telegram API or Qt-based desktop app development.
As the official client, it offers guaranteed compatibility with Telegram's features and updates, combined with the transparency of open-source code. Its performance and native integration make it preferable over web or unofficial clients for daily desktop use.
Telegram Desktop messaging app
Open-Awesome is built by the community, for the community. Submit a project, suggest an awesome list, or help improve the catalog on GitHub.
Offers official builds for Windows, macOS, and Linux, including portable versions and static Linux builds, ensuring a consistent experience across desktop operating systems.
Uses Telegram's open MTProto protocol for end-to-end encrypted secret chats and cloud-based messaging, providing verified security through open-source code.
Supports sending files up to 2GB each, which exceeds limits of many competitors, making it ideal for large media and document transfers.
Maintains archived releases for older systems like Windows XP and macOS 10.12, showing dedicated support for users on legacy hardware.
Source code is licensed under GPLv3, allowing developers to audit, customize, and contribute, enhancing trust and community involvement.
Requires patched Qt versions and multiple third-party libraries (e.g., OpenSSL, WebRTC), making compilation from source challenging and time-consuming.
Latest versions no longer support older OS like Windows XP or macOS 10.12, forcing upgrades and potentially excluding users with outdated devices.
Tied strictly to Telegram's MTProto and cloud infrastructure, preventing customization for alternative servers or proprietary messaging needs.
Includes extensive features like voice/video calls and stickers, which can bloat the application for users preferring a simpler, faster client.