In a large group, one conversation runs over another and members mute the whole group. Topics fix that: the group becomes a set of separate threads, like a small forum, and members follow only the ones they care about.
Quick answer
Open the group info, tap Edit and turn on Topics. Telegram's Topics 2.0 update made this available in any group. Then set in Permissions who may create new topics.
1. What topics are
Telegram describes topics as a way to split group discussions, each topic with its own chat history, shared media and notification settings. Members see a list of topics instead of one long chat.
2. How to turn on topics
- Open the group and tap its name.
- Tap Edit.
- Turn on Topics.
- Save. The group now opens as a list of topics.
Only admins with the right to change group settings can do this. Telegram first offered topics to large groups only; its Topics 2.0 update made them available in any group.
3. Manage topics
- Create a topic with a name and an icon, and pin the most important ones.
- In Permissions, choose whether members may create topics or only admins.
- Close a topic to stop new messages while keeping its history, or delete it.
- Members can mute single topics instead of the whole group.
Which rights to give each admin: Telegram admin permissions.
4. When topics help, and when they do not
| Use topics | Keep one chat |
|---|---|
| Many subjects run at the same time, such as support, offers and off-topic | The group talks about one subject |
| Members mute the group because of noise | The group is small and quiet |
| You want rules, files or announcements in their own place | Fast back-and-forth chat matters most |
Starting a new group? See how to create a Telegram group and set it up.
Frequently asked questions
How do I enable topics in a Telegram group?
Open the group info, tap Edit and turn on Topics. You need admin rights to change group settings.
Can any group use topics?
Yes. Telegram first limited topics to large groups, and its Topics 2.0 update made them available in any group.
Who can create topics?
Admins decide in Permissions whether members may create topics or only admins.
Can I mute one topic?
Yes. Each topic has its own notification settings, so members can mute single topics.
Can I turn topics off again?
Yes. Turn Topics off in the group settings and the group goes back to a single chat.
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