Telegram released an iOS update over the weekend, introducing a new visual design alongside several features for communication and personalization. The update delivers a custom interface and expands functionalities within calls, contact management, profiles, and bot interactions.
The most prominent visual change is a “Liquid Glass-like” interface designed to emulate the aesthetic of iOS 26. This design incorporates transparent elements with a refraction effect that is visible on the bottom navigation bar, keyboard, and sticker panel as a user scrolls. Because Telegram developed this as a custom implementation rather than using a native system feature, the updated design is also available on devices not running iOS 26. This backward compatibility was noted by multiple users on the social media platform X, who confirmed the new interface appeared on older versions of the operating system.
New communication tools were added for group interactions. Participants in group calls and video chats can now send comments and reactions directly within the call interface, providing a channel to share thoughts during an ongoing conversation. The update also enhances contact management by allowing users to add private notes when adding or editing a contact. This feature is intended to help users remember specific details, such as how they met an individual or personal information like their place of work.
Further personalization options focus on user profiles and contacts. Users can now suggest a birthday when editing a contact’s information. If accepted, this date appears on the contact’s profile, enabling friends to acknowledge it with messages or gifts through the platform. Profile appearance settings have also been relocated to the main Settings page for easier access. From there, users can change their profile using preset color options or select a digital gift to apply its specific backdrop and symbol to their profile cover.
The update improves the functionality of bots, particularly those powered by artificial intelligence. Bots now support threaded conversations, which allows them to manage several different topics in parallel without losing context. This enhancement enables users to more easily access information from previous discussions within a single chat. The release also included a new general interface design, increased flexibility and security for the in-app gifts marketplace, and a mini-app version of the application’s bug reporter.
