Understanding the Distinction Between Telegram Groups and Channels
Conclusion: Telegram Groups and Channels each have their own unique features, catering to different social and communication needs. Groups are designed for multi-person interaction, whereas channels are primarily for broadcasting information. Understanding the distinction between the two will help users leverage Telegram more effectively.
Key Telegram Features
Telegram offers a variety of communication methods, including private chats, groups, channels, and bots.
1. Private Chats
Private chats facilitate one-on-one communication with a specific account, categorised into standard private chats and secret (encrypted) chats.
2. Groups
Groups allow multiple people to chat simultaneously. Group owners can create groups, and users can join and participate in discussions. Currently, all newly created groups are Supergroups, capable of accommodating up to 200,000 members. Groups are classified as either private or public.
2.1 Public Groups
Public groups require a public username to be set as a link (e.g., @{name} or https://t.me/{name}). Users can view and join the group via this link. A key characteristic of public groups is that even non-members can view the group's messages and its member list.
2.2 Private Groups
Private groups do not support public links. Only the group owner and administrators can create shareable invitation links (format: https://t.me/+xxxx). Users can only view messages and the member list within a private group after joining it. Public groups can also generate private invitation links.
2.3 Distinguishing Between Public and Private Groups
- The group owner can check the group type in the group settings.
- Look for a public link in the group's profile/description.
2.4 Creating a Group
On the Contacts screen, tap the button in the top-right corner, then select "New Group".
2.5 Viewing Groups You've Created
In the Telegram Desktop client, click the three horizontal lines in the top-left corner, then right-click "New Group" to view the groups you've created.
3. Channels
Channels are similar to Official Accounts on platforms like WeChat. Users can only subscribe or unsubscribe. Only the channel owner and administrators can post content, while members can only view and forward messages. Channels are categorised into private and public. Members cannot view the list of other members; only the channel owner and administrators can.
3.1 Creating a Channel
On the Contacts screen, tap the button in the top-right corner, then select "New Channel".
3.2 Viewing Channels You've Created
In the Telegram Desktop client, click the three horizontal lines in the top-left corner, then right-click "New Channel" to view the channels you've created.
4. Channel Comment Functionality
Channels can be linked to a group to enable comment functionality.
5. How to Post in a Group as a Channel
By understanding the distinction between Telegram's groups and channels, users can better choose the communication method that suits their needs, thereby enhancing their overall user experience.