# Telegram Overview
Telegram is a cloud-based instant messaging and voice-over IP service developed by Telegram Messenger LLP.
Learn how to [connect your Telegram bot to ](https://help.respond.io/telegram/telegram)IS-Messenger Once connected, this Telegram bot integration lets you respond to messages directly from our platform.
### Pricing
You can use Telegram for free.
You may opt to subscribe to [Telegram Premium](https://telegram.org/faq_premium) with a monthly fee to get exclusive features from Telegram.
## Capturing Conversation
Telegram requires customers to send your business the first message to start a conversation.
There are a couple of ways to encourage customers to initiate a chat:
* [Chat links](https://help.respond.io/quick-start/getting-contacts-to-message-you): This is a shortened URL using the `t.me/username` format that you can add to your website, social media profiles or newsletters. When customers click the link, they will be directed to start a chat with you.
* [QR codes](https://help.respond.io/quick-start/getting-contacts-to-message-you): A QR code can be placed in physical locations, such as hotels, restaurants or malls. When customers scan the code, they will be directed to start a chat with you.
* [Chat widget](https://help.respond.io/workspace-settings/growth-widgets): A Telegram Widget can be added to your website to direct customers to start a chat with you.
### Channel Capabilities
These are the capabilities of Telegram:
* [Supported File Types](https://help.respond.io/telegram/telegram-overview#supported_file_types)
* [Message Status Availability](https://help.respond.io/telegram/telegram-overview#message_status_availability)
* [Messaging Window](https://help.respond.io/telegram/telegram-overview#messaging_window)
* [Broadcasts](https://help.respond.io/telegram/telegram-overview#broadcasts)
* [Rate Limits](https://help.respond.io/telegram/telegram-overview#rate_limits)
**Supported File Types**
The file types supported by Telegram and the maximum file size for each type are as follows:
* Image (10 MB)
* Audio (20 MB)
* Video (20 MB)
* File (20 MB)
{% hint style="warning" %}
For any unsupported file type or file that exceeds the maximum file size sent via Telegram, the file will automatically be turned into a URL link on the IS-Messenger platform.
{% endhint %}
### **Message Status Availability**
The table outlines the availability of message statuses in Telegram.
| **Message Status** | **Availability** |
| ------------------ | ---------------- |
| Sent | ✅ |
| Delivered | ❌ |
| Read | ❌ |
| Failed | ❌ |
### **Messaging Window**
Telegram does not have a messaging window. Once Contacts have started a chat with you, you can send messages to your Contacts anytime without any limit.
{% hint style="warning" %}
At any point, Contacts may block your Telegram bot. To understand further on the implications of this, refer to the FAQ [here](/ismessenger/messaging-channels/telegram.md).
{% endhint %}
### **Broadcasts**
You can send an unlimited number of broadcasts to your Contacts. Learn more on [how to send a broadcast here](/ismessenger/modules/broadcast/broadcast.md).
{% hint style="warning" %}
At any point, Contacts may block your Telegram bot. To understand further on the implications of this, refer to the FAQ [here](/ismessenger/messaging-channels/telegram.md)
{% endhint %}
### **Rate Limits**
A rate limit is the number of API calls an app or user can make within a given time period defined by the channel. Learn more about the [rate limits for this channel here](https://core.telegram.org/bots/faq#:~:text=When%20sending%20messages%20inside%20a,messages%20per%20second%20or%20so).
### FAQ and Troubleshooting
**Can I start a conversation with a Telegram Contact?**
Telegram bot rules say Contacts must message you first before you can message them back. Learn how to [encourage users to start a chat here](https://help.respond.io/telegram/telegram-overview#capturing_conversation).
**Can I receive files via Telegram?**
Yes, but the maximum file size for a Telegram bot to download is 20 MB. If the Contact sends a video bigger than 20 MB, the bot will not be able to download the file.
**Do you support Telegram Groups?**
Telegram Groups are not supported yet, you can upvote our feature request [here](/ismessenger/messaging-channels/telegram.md).
**What should I do if I have lost my Telegram bot token?**
If you have lost your Telegram bot token for some reason or if your existing token has been compromised, you can use the token command to generate a new one.
`/token`
**How do I create a QR Code for my Telegram account?**
1. On the IS-Messenger platform, click **Settings** > **Growth Widget** > **+** **Add Widget**.
2. Select **QR Code** > click **Create Widget**.
3. Select **Telegram** as the QR code type > Select the connected Telegram Channel for which you want to create the QR code.
4. Click **Download** and select the size of the QR code you want to save.
Learn more about [Growth Widgets here](/ismessenger/workspace-setting/managing-a-workspace.md).
Alternatively, you can create a QR code through the **Telegram mobile app.**
1. Tap **Settings** in the menu of your Telegram app.
2. Tap the **QR code icon** on the top right corner.
3. Choose a background design that you like and tap the **Share QR Code** button to share it with your customers.
**How do I change my Telegram bot profile photo?**
1. On your Telegram app, search for **BotFather**.
2. In the chat box, enter `/mybots` to bring up a list of your bots.
3. Select your bot > **Edit Bot** > **Edit Botpic**.
4. Send your new profile photo.
**How do I change my Telegram bot name?**
1. On your Telegram app, search for **BotFather**.
2. In the chat box, enter`/mybots` to bring up a list of your bots.
3. Select your bot > **Edit Bot** > **Edit Name**.
4. Enter and send a new name for your bot.
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