The Telegram team has unveiled another update for the messenger. The clients for Android and iOS are now available in version 11.4, while the desktop version is at 5.8.0.

The key changes involve the built-in mini-apps within the messenger. As previously promised by Pavel Durov, these apps can now be expanded to full screen, access various device functions and settings, and connect to paid subscriptions.

Full-Screen Mode

Telegram mini-apps can now utilize the entire screen space—both on smartphones and computers. This feature works for both vertical and horizontal ("landscape") display orientations.

To do this, simply open the additional menu in the mini-app window and select the "Full Screen" option.

Access to Hardware Features

Mini-apps can now retrieve information from the smartphone or tablet's accelerometer to track movements. This can be utilized, for instance, for game controls or immersive applications.

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Developers now have the option to block automatic screen rotation. This will prevent unnecessary rotations when control is managed through movement.

Additionally, users will be able to provide their current location to the mini-apps (for example, for an interactive map). By default, access to geolocation is disabled, but it can be enabled for specific instances or allowed on a permanent basis.

Furthermore, mini-apps have gained access to the main characteristics of the device they are running on—specifically, memory size and CPU power. This enables automatic adjustment of settings for optimal app performance.

Icons, Files, and Posts

The mini-app shortcut can be added to the device's home screen. This allows users to open games and services with a single tap.

Mini-apps can generate documents, images, audio recordings, and other files. Users will be able to save these to their devices, downloading files received from other users.

Moreover, users will be able to share media files and posts directly from the mini-apps. Additionally, the mini-apps have the ability to create media for publication in stories.

Gifts and Statuses

Developers of mini-apps can send users gifts for stars—such as rewards for achievements. In turn, users will have a new setting to display gifts in their profiles.

Telegram Premium subscribers will be able to set emoji statuses within mini-apps. Besides manual setup, mini-apps can automatically update statuses using APIs from other services (for example, indicating music listening or reading an e-book).

Paid Subscriptions

Creators of mini-apps can now add subscriptions for all or specific features, which can be paid for with Telegram stars. Multiple pricing plans for different access levels are available.

Loading Screen Customization

Using @BotFather, developers can customize the screen displayed while loading the mini-app. There is an option to add their own icon and choose colors.

Earlier, Spot reported that a Telegram office is planned to be opened at Astana Hub.