Source: Bloomberg
Summary
Telegram, an offline messaging app, gained popularity in India during protests in New Delhi, as users sought alternative platforms to Facebook-owned WhatsApp. The app’s downloads surged, with over 1.5 million new users signing up in a single day. Telegram’s founder, Pavel Durov, attributed the growth to users seeking more private and secure communication options. The protests in India were sparked by concerns over WhatsApp’s updated privacy policy. According to Durov, Telegram’s user base in India grew by 25% in 2020.
Our Reading
The launch follows a familiar script.
Telegram’s sudden surge in India isn’t exactly a surprise, given the country’s history with social media protests. The app’s offline feature and promise of security resonated with users. Amid concerns over WhatsApp’s data sharing, Telegram’s “privacy-focused” approach seemed like a breath of fresh air. But let’s be real, how many times have we seen this “new” messaging app savior complex? Telegram is just the latest in a long line of “secure” messaging apps that promise the world and eventually get bought out or compromised.
Author: Evan Null
