Telegram Adds Passkeys, Gift Offers, and Audio in Stories

Telegram's latest update brings a set of security and social features designed to streamline logins and boost in-app interactions. The highlight is device-based passkeys for login, along with new gift offers and music-friendly storytelling options.

Secure login with device-based passkeys

Passkeys are cryptographic keys created on your device to sign in without typing a code from SMS. They work with your PIN or biometric verification and stay on your device, with optional sync to password managers for convenience. This method aims to be faster and safer than traditional codes. To enable it, go to Settings → Privacy → Passkeys. Important: your Telegram account must still be linked to an active phone number.

Gift offers and price reservations

While browsing someone’s gifts, you can propose selling items from your collection for Stars (Telegram's in-app tipping currency) or TON (the app's cryptocurrency). You set the price and expiration period; the offered amount is reserved immediately, and if the deal is declined, the funds are released back to your balance. The interface shows how closely the offer matches the estimated value to help avoid overpaying.

Audio in Stories

Stories now support audio clips from your saved music library. In the editor, open the sticker panel, tap the Sound icon, and choose a track from Saved Music to attach to your story.

Update availability: The new features are available to all users now.

Expert comment: A security expert notes that passkeys reduce reliance on SMS codes and phishing risks, aligning Telegram with modern authentication methods. The Gifts feature signals a push toward deeper in-app commerce and richer interactions without leaving the chat environment.

Summary

Telegram's update centers on safer login with device-stored passkeys, along with new ways to trade gifts using Stars and TON. It also adds audio support to Stories, expanding content options for creators and fans. The changes aim to improve security and engagement while keeping users inside the app.

Key insight: Device-based passkeys deliver faster, phishing-resistant sign-in, while gift offers and audio in Stories strengthen in-app engagement and social interaction.