Telegram Gained Nearly 500,000 Daily Users Before Durov's Arrest

Since its launch in August 2013, Telegram has emerged as a popular messaging platform, known for its focus on privacy. In 2024, the app experienced significant growth, adding over 485,000 active users daily from April to late July, just prior to the arrest of its founder and CEO, Pavel Durov, by French authorities.

This rapid growth saw Telegram's user base increase from 900 million on April 10, 2024, to 950 million by July 22, 2024, indicating that nearly one-eighth of the global population was using the platform.

Sustained User Growth

Despite the impressive growth in 2024, Durov had previously reported in July 2023 that Telegram was gaining 2.5 million new accounts daily. However, it is important to note that not all new accounts translate into active monthly users (MoUs), a metric commonly used by social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook to measure engagement.

The actual growth rate of Telegram over the years is somewhat difficult to assess due to the lack of specific milestone announcements. For instance, Durov mentioned in December 2022 that the number of MoUs had reached 700 million, but the exact date of this data is unclear.

Popularity in the Global South

Telegram's user base is notably larger in countries classified as part of the 'Global South' compared to Western nations. Recent data indicates that 45% of respondents in India, 38% in Brazil, 34% in Mexico, and 32% in South Africa use Telegram regularly. In contrast, only 29% of Italians, 16% of Germans, 10% of UK residents, 9% of Americans, and just 1% of Japanese respondents reported regular use of the app.

This trend may be linked to Durov's Russian background and the historical ties many of these countries have with Russia, particularly those within the BRICS alliance.

FAQ: Telegram's User Growth and Pavel Durov's Arrest

1. What recent growth has Telegram experienced?
Telegram has added over 485,000 active users daily from April to late July 2024, increasing its user base from 900 million to 950 million during this period.

2. How does Telegram's user growth compare to previous years?
In July 2023, Telegram was reportedly gaining 2.5 million new accounts daily. However, the recent growth rate of nearly 500,000 daily users indicates a shift in user acquisition.

3. What is the significance of Pavel Durov's arrest?
Pavel Durov, the founder and CEO of Telegram, was arrested by French authorities shortly before the reported surge in user growth. The implications of his arrest on the platform's future are yet to be determined.

4. How does Telegram's user base differ across regions?
Telegram is more popular in countries classified as part of the 'Global South.' For example, 45% of respondents in India, 38% in Brazil, and 34% in Mexico reported regular use of the app, compared to lower percentages in Western countries.

5. What metrics are used to measure Telegram's growth?
While Telegram's growth is often reported in terms of new account creation, the number of active monthly users (MoUs) is a more relevant metric for assessing engagement. Durov reported 700 million MoUs in December 2022, but the exact date of this data is unclear.

6. Why is Telegram's popularity higher in certain countries?
The app's popularity in the Global South may be linked to Durov's Russian background and historical ties between these countries and Russia, particularly among nations within the BRICS alliance.

7. What challenges does Telegram face moving forward?
The platform may face challenges related to Durov's arrest, potential regulatory scrutiny, and competition from other messaging apps, which could impact its user growth and engagement strategies.

8. How can users stay updated on Telegram's developments?
Users can follow official Telegram channels, news outlets, and social media platforms for the latest updates regarding the app's features, user growth, and any developments related to Pavel Durov.