San Francisco: Encrypted messaging platform Telegram is testing a pay-to-view posting feature that uses iOS’s own payment system instead of Apple’s in-app purchases.
The feature allows users to charge others to view certain messages, 9To5Mac reports.
Some Telegram channels have already gained access to the feature, but it has not been officially announced by the platform, suggesting that it is still being tested.
The iOS app for Telegram offers paid posts, but even there the app doesn’t use the App Store’s in-app purchase system, but has its own payment system.
While it’s unclear whether Apple is aware of Telegram’s plans, it doesn’t seem likely given that selling in-app content through alternative payment methods is against App Store rules.
According to the report, a Telegram spokesperson said the company has not tested a feature for paid posts. Some creators use pay-to-view bots and third-party contribution bots as an alternative.
The company recently reduced its monthly subscription fee in India for premium users to Rs 179 from Rs 469.
In a message sent to its users in the country, the platform announced the discount in subscription fees as it focuses on aggressive growth in a country.