When did Telegram start needing a mobile number?

[milomak]

i have a worry this picture will be big

but at least on OSX Telegram is asking for a telephone number. I was trying to push it based merely on that it was based on an email account and so you could use it on an device. Why now do I need to put a number?

 

[Bryn]

I've only ever used Telegram when a number was required. I guess they had to go in that direction or it had no chance of competing against WhatsApp. I certainly wouldn't use Telegram if it required email addresses.

 

[milomak]

I've only ever used Telegram when a number was required. I guess they had to go in that direction or it had no chance of competing against WhatsApp. I certainly wouldn't use Telegram if it required email addresses.

strangely i would want it to be an email platform. because then it is not linked to a device but rather to a user. so i can login anywhere and read. unlike whatsapp which requires my phone. and becomes problematic if stolen.

edit - i guess they have tried to resolve this with google drive backup. but still one device.

If I have phone and pad I want messages on both

 

[Bryn]

The Telegram desktop app has all my messages and doesn't require tethering to my phone. Good enough for me, and way better than what WhatsApp offers.

 

[rorz0r]

Telegram has always needed a number, but after the initial SMS it basically doesn't need any particular device. You don't even need to install it on your phone, just need to receive an otp SMS.