TELEGRAM LAUNCHES ITS OWN “WHATSAPP BUSINESS” AS A NEW IN-APP SUBSCRIPTION

In 2018, WhatsApp responded to the growing demand for business communication with the launch of its dedicated app, WhatsApp Business. Now, Telegram seems to be following suit with the introduction of Telegram Business, a set of features tailored to companies within the existing Telegram app.

TELEGRAM ENTERS THE BUSINESS ARENA WITH A PAID SUBSCRIPTION MODEL

While both platforms offer similar functionalities to their standard versions, Telegram Business distinguishes itself through a monthly subscription fee of €4.49. However, it is currently included as part of the Telegram Premium subscription.

BRIDGING THE GAP BETWEEN BUSINESSES AND CUSTOMERS

Telegram’s foray into the business space signifies its commitment to fostering user growth. Unlike WhatsApp Business, which operates as a separate application, Telegram Business integrates seamlessly into the existing experience. This eliminates the need for businesses to manage multiple platforms and simplifies communication workflows.

Companies can activate Telegram Business by subscribing for €4.49 per month, with a discounted annual option at €2.83. Alternatively, they can leverage the current inclusion within their existing Telegram Premium subscriptions.

FEATURE COMPARISON: SIMILARITIES AND DISTINCTIONS

Upon exploring Telegram Business, users will find several functionalities mirroring those offered by WhatsApp Business. This reflects a strategic alignment with the features introduced in WhatsApp Business compared to the standard app. Here’s a breakdown of the key features:

• Welcome Message: Businesses can personalize a greeting automatically sent to new contacts upon their initial message.
• Absence Message: Companies can establish an automated response to inform customers about their unavailability, such as during closed hours.
• Quick Replies: Pre-defined responses can be created for efficient communication, saving time and ensuring consistency.
• Profile Enhancements: Business profiles can showcase the company’s opening hours and location through an integrated map.
• Emoji Status: Similar to Telegram Premium, businesses can personalize their profiles with an additional emoji next to their name.