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Telegram introduces paid subscriptions for creators
What’s the story
Telegram has introduced new ways for content creators to monetize their work on the platform.
The messaging app now allows monthly paid subscriptions, purchasable with its recently introduced digital currency, Stars.
This feature enables users to access additional content from creators.
Similar to Patreon’s model, it offers a unique opportunity for creators to charge for early or exclusive access to their material.
Subscription model and revenue sharing
Content creators can now generate invite links that permit users to join a channel for a monthly fee in Stars. The pricing of their content is at the discretion of the creators themselves.
They can convert Stars into Toncoin cryptocurrency rewards or subsidized advertisements.
While Telegram does take a commission from transactions involving Stars, the exact percentage has not been disclosed by the company.
Star Reactions to support creators
In addition to the subscription model, Telegram has also introduced Star Reactions.
This feature allows users to directly support their favorite content creators, similar to YouTube’s “Super Thanks” feature and X’s Tips feature.
Interestingly, creators receive 100% of the Stars they earn through the Reactions feature, further enhancing their potential earnings on the platform.
Ongoing efforts to monetize content
The new features are part of Telegram’s ongoing efforts to monetize content on its platform.
Last month, the company began allowing creators to share paid content on their channels. A few months prior, it initiated an ad revenue sharing scheme with creators.
These steps underscore Telegram’s commitment toward providing diverse income streams for its users and enhancing the overall user experience.
Telegram’s user base nears 1 billion mark
As of last month, Telegram reported having 950 million active users and aims to surpass the one billion mark this year.
Earlier this year, Telegram founder Pavel Durov stated that the company expects to become profitable next year and is considering going public.
This significant user base and projected growth further highlight the potential of these new monetization features for content creators on the platform.
