Telegram Stories no longer limited to only premium users

Telegram launched its new feature, Stories, to everyone today including non-paying users. The feature was previously only available to premium users since its launch in July.

Similar to Facebook Messenger Stories, Telegram Stories also appear as expandable bubbles above conversations. Telegram, however, offers more customisable settings like granular control of who sees uploaded posts and for how long.

“Now when you meet people on Telegram, you’ll see exciting snapshots of their life — not just a few profile photos,” said the company in a blog post.

Telegram describes Stories as “by far the most-requested feature” in the company’s History. Its privacy control features visibility options for everyone, all contacts, selected contacts, or close friends.

Stories can also be hidden from certain contacts, while premium users can select how long their Stories should stay up between six, 12, 24 and 48 hours.

Telegram Stories has a BeReal-lol dual-camera mode, letting users simultaneously share photos or videos captured by the phone’s front and rear sensors. Viewers can choose to react with a range of responses to posts.

Some advanced features are reserved for Premium users only like their Stories being exposed first while they can also view others’ stories in stealth mode, hiding all traces of their visit from the author. Moreover, subscribers will also be able to have access to custom expiration options, a permanent view history, the ability to save Stories to the gallery, “10 times longer” captions and a higher allotment of daily Stories.

Telegram Stories are expected to roll out today on Android and iOS devices.