A New Era of AI-Powered Messaging

In a groundbreaking move, Telegram has partnered with Elon Musk’s artificial intelligence company, xAI, to integrate the Grok AI chatbot into its messaging platform. This collaboration aims to enhance user experience by providing advanced AI-driven features to Telegram’s extensive user base of over one billion.

The Partnership Details

Announced on May 28, 2025, the one-year agreement involves xAI investing $300 million in Telegram through a combination of cash and equity. Additionally, Telegram will receive 50% of any subscription sales generated through the app. This strategic alliance is expected to significantly bolster xAI’s access to user data, which is crucial for training and improving its AI models, especially as high-quality data sources become increasingly scarce.

What is Grok?

Grok is xAI’s flagship AI chatbot, designed to provide real-time answers, smart search capabilities, and interactive conversations. Initially launched in 2023, Grok has undergone several iterations, with the latest version, Grok-3, released in February 2025. Grok-3 boasts enhanced computing power and advanced reasoning capabilities, positioning it as a formidable competitor in the AI chatbot market.

Features and Functionalities

The integration of Grok into Telegram brings a host of features to users:

  • Real-Time Responses: Grok can provide instant answers to user queries, enhancing the immediacy of information retrieval.
  • Smart Search: Users can leverage Grok’s advanced search capabilities to find information quickly and efficiently.
  • Interactive Conversations: Grok is designed to engage in meaningful dialogues, adapting to user preferences over time.
  • AI Sticker Generation: Users can create custom stickers using AI, adding a fun and personalised touch to their chats.
  • Document Summarisation: Grok can digest and summarise documents, aiding users in processing information more effectively.

These features are accessible through both mobile and desktop versions of Telegram, ensuring a seamless user experience across devices.

Availability and Access

Grok’s integration into Telegram is set to roll out this summer. Initially, the AI chatbot will be available to Telegram Premium subscribers, who can access it at no additional cost. Basic users may receive access later, potentially with some limitations. The integration supports various chat formats, including group chats, private messages, and channels, allowing users to interact with Grok in multiple contexts.

Privacy and Data Handling

While the partnership offers significant benefits, it also raises questions about data privacy. The deal could provide xAI with valuable data to train and develop its AI models. However, it remains unclear whether xAI will utilise data from Telegram users for training purposes, as both companies have not commented on the matter.

Implications for the Tech Industry

This collaboration between Telegram and xAI reflects a broader trend in the tech industry, where companies are increasingly integrating AI capabilities into their platforms to enhance user experience and stay competitive. By bringing Grok to Telegram, xAI not only expands its reach but also gains access to a vast user base, which could be instrumental in refining its AI models.

Conclusion: A Strategic Move Forward

The integration of Grok into Telegram marks a significant step in the evolution of AI-powered communication. For Telegram, it enhances the platform’s functionality and user engagement. For xAI, it provides an opportunity to refine its AI models with real-world data. As AI continues to permeate various aspects of digital communication, partnerships like this one are likely to become more prevalent, shaping the future of how we interact online.