Telegram anticipates 1 billion active users within next year
What's the story
Telegram, a popular messaging app, is predicted to reach one billion active monthly users within the next year.
This forecast was made by the app's founder, Pavel Durov, during a recent interview with US journalist Tucker Carlson.
Durov compared the rapid growth of the Dubai-based free cloud-based app to a "forest fire," confidently stating that it will "probably cross 1 billion monthly active users within a year now."
Neutrality
Commitment to neutrality amid rapid growth
Despite its impressive user base of 900 million, Telegram is committed to remaining a "neutral platform," avoiding becoming a "player in geopolitics," as stated by Durov.
The Russian-born entrepreneur, who left Russia in 2014 due to government interference in his business, is the sole owner of Telegram.
He also revealed plans for a US listing once the app becomes profitable.
Vommunication
Telegram's role in the Russia-Ukraine conflict
In the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, Telegram has emerged as a crucial communication tool for both governments.
It serves as a primary source for unfiltered war-related information, used by major media outlets, government bodies, and public figures in both countries.
For instance, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy uses the app to share daily video addresses, while his military uses it to provide updates on air raids and battlefield situations.
Issues
Concerns over misinformation and manipulation
Despite its utility, concerns have been raised about Telegram being used as a platform for misinformation and manipulation.
A bill introduced to the Ukrainian parliament in March suggests tighter regulation of Telegram and other social networks.
Following an alleged use of the app to recruit attackers who targeted a concert hall outside Moscow, the Kremlin has urged Durov to exercise more caution.