Telegram-iOS

Project Overview

Telegram iOS is the official open-source iOS client for the Telegram messaging application. Users can compile custom versions based on this code, while complying with Telegram's usage requirements and license terms.

Key Features

• Full Telegram functionality: messaging, groups, channels, voice calls
• End-to-end encryption: supports Secret Chats
• Open source: freely modifiable and distributable
• Bazel build system: modern build workflow

Limitations: Requires personal api_id; cannot use official Telegram logo/name; must follow MTProto security guidelines; modified code must be open-sourced.

Target Audience

• Developers wanting to compile custom Telegram iOS builds
• Technical users studying Telegram client architecture
• Heavy Telegram users needing customized features

Quick Start

1. Get your api_id: core.telegram.org/api/obtaining_api_id
2. Clone the repo: git clone --recursive -j8 https://github.com/TelegramMessenger/Telegram-iOS.git
3. Install Xcode (from App Store or Apple Developer)
4. Edit config: modify build-system/template_minimal_development_configuration.json
5. Generate project: python3 build-system/Make/Make.py generateProject ...
6. Build and run in Xcode

Core Advantages

• Official source code, complete features
• Open source and customizable
• Well-documented build process
• Follows Telegram MTProto security protocols

System Requirements

• OS: macOS (requires Xcode)
• Architecture: arm64 (iOS)
• Additional dependencies: Bazel, Xcode, Apple Developer certificate

Notes

• Cannot use Telegram's official name or logo
• Must study and follow MTProto Security Guidelines
• Modified code must be open-sourced per license
• Compilation process is complex and requires technical background