Telegram, the popular messaging app, has introduced a feature allowing users to send one-time voice and video messages, a feature reminiscent of real-life conversations where communication is ephemeral and to the point.

The January update brings a unique twist to messaging by enabling users to record view-once messages. Users can simply swipe up to lock recording, tap on the view-once icon, and send messages that delete automatically after being played back.

This feature enhances the conversational experience by preventing recipients from replaying or saving the messages.

To indicate the nature of the message, a small '1' appears, signifying it as a one-time message. Once played, the message cannot be paused or rewound and disappears upon completion.

However, it's important to note that while the feature aims to enhance privacy and mimic real-life interactions, recipients can still record these messages for future listening.

Additionally, Telegram has introduced another update allowing users to see the exact time when messages in one-on-one chats were opened. Privacy settings can be adjusted based on the Last Seen status, providing users with control over their read status for specific contacts.

For free users, the update includes new shared contacts designs, improved video messages on iOS with clearer video quality, faster camera switching, and reduced camera shake. macOS users will also enjoy 15 new icons to match their themes and stand out in the dock.

Telegram Premium subscribers will experience even more enhancements, including faster video stories, private message permissions to receive messages only from contacts and premium users, one-way last seen and read times, and tags to facilitate sorting saved messages.