Telegram Returns to Apple Watch with a Complete Native App

Telegram has relaunched a completely native application for Apple Watch. More than a decade after the debut of its first app, which was later removed, the popular messaging service has restored direct support for Apple's smartwatch, as announced by CEO Pavel Durov.

A fully native Telegram app for Apple Watch is out.

-- Pavel Durov (@durov) June 9, 2026

This initiative marks a significant return and demonstrates an evolution in Telegram's support for the Apple Watch ecosystem. The service had previously introduced a native app for the smartwatch with version 3.0 in June 2015. However, after a few years, Telegram decided to cease native support for watchOS, aligning with a trend where several other platforms abandoned the development of dedicated applications for Apple's wearable. Only in recent years has this trend shown signs of reversal, with Apple managing to re-attract developers to its watchOS ecosystem.

Telegram Returns to Apple Watch: Access and Features of the New App

The process for accessing the new app requires users to scan a QR code through the Telegram application on their iPhone, similar to the login procedure for web or Mac. Subsequently, if applicable, users may be prompted to enter their cloud password for full authentication. Once authenticated, users have complete access to their contacts and conversations directly from their wrist.

The new version of the app for Apple Watch supports an extended set of features. Users can play GIFs and videos, send and receive voice and text messages, share their location, and use stickers directly from the smartwatch. This range of functions aims to provide a complete user experience, eliminating the need to rely on the iPhone for the most common interactions.

The update is being rolled out and can be downloaded immediately by all users where Telegram is available through the App Store. Interestingly, the official release notes on the App Store do not explicitly mention the new support for Apple Watch, a detail that may go unnoticed upon first consultation. This release places Telegram among the platforms that have chosen to embrace a native experience on watchOS, potentially responding to a latent demand from a user base eager for a smoother and more direct interaction with their communications on the wrist.