Telegram has just unveiled a suite of new features designed to empower content creators with innovative ways to earn money directly through the platform. Announced on Wednesday, these updates include the highly anticipated launch of monthly paid subscriptions, which users can purchase using the app’s unique digital currency, Stars. This move is set to transform how creators monetize their content, offering them greater flexibility and new revenue streams.
One of the standout features is the ability for creators to generate invite links that grant users access to exclusive channels in exchange for a monthly payment made in Stars. This feature mirrors the subscription model seen on platforms like Patreon, enabling creators to offer premium or early-access content to their most dedicated fans.
With this new tool, creators have complete control over setting the price for their content, tailoring their offerings to different audience segments. Once earned, Stars can be converted into Toncoin cryptocurrency rewards or used to offset the cost of ads on Telegram, providing creators with diverse ways to maximize their earnings. While Telegram does take a commission on transactions involving Stars, the company has yet to disclose the specific percentage.
In addition to paid subscriptions, Telegram is also rolling out a feature called Star Reactions. This allows users to show their support for creators by sending them Stars directly, similar to YouTube’s “Super Thanks” or X’s Tips feature. Unlike with subscriptions, creators receive 100% of the Stars sent through Star Reactions, making it a highly attractive option for building a strong, supportive community.
These new monetization options build on Telegram’s ongoing efforts to enhance creator earnings on the platform. Just last month, the company introduced the ability for creators to share paid content on their channels, and earlier this year, Telegram launched an ad revenue sharing program for creators.
This latest announcement coincides with Telegram’s impressive growth, as the platform recently reached 950 million active users. With ambitious plans to cross the 1 billion user mark this year, Telegram is positioning itself as a formidable player in the social media landscape. Founder Pavel Durov has expressed confidence in the platform’s future, noting that the company expects to achieve profitability next year and is even considering an initial public offering (IPO).
Telegram’s commitment to empowering creators with diverse monetization tools not only enhances the platform’s appeal but also cements its role as a key player in the creator economy. As the platform continues to evolve, creators and users alike can look forward to even more innovative features designed to support and reward high-quality content.
