Telegram Introduces Free Message Links and an Updated QR Code Editor

The personal profile QR code screen has been updated in the Beta versions of Telegram for iOS 13.0.1, Telegram for macOS 13.0, and Telegram for Android 13.1. Alongside new appearance settings, the messenger now allows users to generate special links and QR codes that let others message them for free even when paid messages are enabled.

How it works

If you have set a fee in Stars for incoming messages, a “Remove message fee” button now appears below your profile QR code.

When activated, it appends a randomly generated access token to your profile link. Your regular profile link will still require payment, while sending messages for free will only be available to those who follow the link or scan the QR code containing a valid token.

By default, the generated QR code is temporary and remains valid for 1 minute — this is handy when you want to show it to someone on your phone screen in person.

In the code management menu, you can adjust these settings: make the link permanent (Disable timer), limit its validity to one minute again (Expire after 1 minute), reset the token to invalidate the old link (Reset Code), or re-enable paid messages altogether (Restore message fee).

This feature is useful if you want to protect yourself from spam and unsolicited direct messages while still providing a “free” entry point on your website, on a business card, or in a private community where friends or potential clients might look for you, or if you want to automate link distribution via a bot.

New QR code design

Customizing the QR code’s appearance is no longer limited to preset themes: users can now pick colors from a wide palette, use any emoji as a background pattern, or select unique collectible gifts from their profile (the latter requires a Telegram Premium subscription).

Because of this, only the account owner can now manage the appearance of their QR code screen. Any decorations applied to the link’s design are visible to other users.

#iOS #macOS #Android