# Telegram

**Source:** https://www.startuphub.ai/startups/telegram
**Profile type:** Startup

> A cloud-based, cross-platform instant messaging service with a focus on speed, security, and privacy.

## About

Telegram is a free, cross-platform, cloud-based, end-to-end encrypted instant messaging service. It was launched in 2013 by Pavel Durov. Telegram's core features include instant messaging, voice calls, video calls, file sharing, and group chats. It is known for its focus on privacy and security, offering features like secret chats with end-to-end encryption and self-destructing messages. Telegram also allows for the creation of large public channels and groups, making it a popular platform for communication and information dissemination.

## Key facts

- **Slug:** telegram
- **Website:** https://telegram.org/
- **Location:** Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- **Founded:** 2013-08-14 00:00:00
- **Operating status:** Inactive
- **Total funding:** $63M
- **Sectors / tags:** Communication, Social Media, Technology
- **Social:**
  - Twitter: https://twitter.com/telegram

## Frequently asked

### What does Telegram do?

Telegram is a free, cross-platform, cloud-based, end-to-end encrypted instant messaging service. It was launched in 2013 by Pavel Durov. Telegram's core features include instant messaging, voice calls, video calls, file sharing, and group chats. It is known for its focus on privacy and security, offering features like secret chats with end-to-end encryption and self-destructing messages. Telegram also allows for the creation of large public channels and groups, making it a popular platform for c…

### What is Telegram's valuation?

StartupHub estimates Telegram's effective valuation at $612.0M (range $428.4M to $795.6M, 25% confidence), based on comparable companies in the sector.

### How much funding has Telegram raised?

Telegram has raised a total of $63M in funding. The most recent round on record is Seed.

### Where is Telegram headquartered?

Telegram is headquartered in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

### When was Telegram founded?

Telegram was founded in 2013.

### What industry does Telegram operate in?

Telegram operates in Communication, Social Media, Technology.

### What is Telegram's current status?

Telegram's current operating status is: Inactive.

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