Social Media Moves: Telegram's xAI Collaboration, WhatsApp's iPad App & Discord's Virtual Rewards

The world of digital communications is always changing, improving with new technology, adapting to user behavior, and exploring new revenue streams.

Messaging apps, which used to be limited to texting, have now become comprehensive platforms offering voice and video calls, AI features, and innovative functions. These developments give users the ability to always stay connected with loved ones, friends, celebrities, and creators from across the globe.

Well, recent updates from major players like Telegram, WhatsApp, and Discord show how quickly things are changing in the social messaging space, as platforms are working to strengthen their positions and improve their services in a competitive market.

Let’s take a closer look at what was announced by these leading messaging apps!
 

Telegram's Strategic AI Alliance With xAI And Grok

In a major development that could reshape both its financial outlook and competitive edge, Telegram CEO Pavel Durov announced a strategic partnership with Elon Musk’s xAI.

The collaboration involves a $300 million payment from xAI for Telegram to host its Grok chatbot within the messaging platform. Beyond the initial payment, Telegram is set to earn a substantial 50% of the revenue generated from xAI subscriptions sold through its platform.


Durov described it as a yearlong partnership that 'strengthens Telegram’s financial position' — a crucial move for a platform that surpassed one billion monthly users in 2025.

Moreover, Durov is reportedly aiming to raise $1.5 billion through a bond issue, with xAI’s $300 million payment kickstarting its funding. Yet, despite Durov’s enthusiastic announcement, Elon Musk later raised doubts with a brief post on X saying, 'No deal has been signed,' without giving more details.

This conflicting information makes the agreement’s final status unclear, although Durov’s statement promised Telegram users access to 'the best AI technology on the market' this summer.

The partnership comes as Telegram, widely used in places like Russia and Ukraine, faces scrutiny — with Durov even being investigated in France for allegedly allowing criminal activity on the platform.

Telegram has publicly stated its adherence to European Union laws and that Durov has "nothing to hide."

Meanwhile, xAI’s Grok chatbot has faced controversy for giving inappropriate responses about “white genocide” in South Africa, which xAI said was caused by an “unauthorized modification.”

Both platforms aim to make their services accessible to a wider audience that uses diverse devices.

However, industry leader WhatsApp has already made a move in the same direction.
 

WhatsApp Arrives On iPad With Enhanced Multitasking

For years, iPad users who relied on WhatsApp faced the inconvenience of using its web version through a browser. Now, the wait is over, as WhatsApp's parent company, Meta, officially launched a dedicated iPad application.

The long-awaited app adds powerful features to the iPad interface, greatly improving the messaging experience. Users can make video and audio calls with up to 32 people, easily switch between front and back cameras, and even share their screen.


It is designed to fully utilize iPadOS multitasking features, with tools like Stage Manager, Split View, and Slide Over to stay productive and connected.

With the new app, WhatsApp users can send messages while browsing the web during a call—tasks that previously required switching away from WhatsApp on mobile devices.

The app works seamlessly with Apple accessories, such as the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil, making it versatile for different workflows. It also keeps messages, calls, and media secure with WhatsApp’s end-to-end encryption to protect user privacy.

This launch, subtly teased by WhatsApp on X, follows a trend of Meta expanding its app ecosystem, with it reportedly working on Instagram’s iPad version. Meta’s move with WhatsApp shows how important seamless cross-device usage is in keeping users engaged.

Now, let’s switch gears to Discord, whose new rewards system also aims to boost user engagement.
 

Discord Rolls Out “Orbs” Virtual Rewards System Ahead Of IPO

Discord, the go-to hub for gamers and online communities, recently announced an experiment with a new virtual reward system called "Orbs," adding a fresh twist to its voice, video, and text experience.

The feaure is meant to incentivize user engagement with interactive ads called "Quests," as Discord explores monetization options ahead of a potential Initial Public Order (IPO) later this year.

The introduction of "Orbs" allows users to redeem earned Orbs for exclusive digital items from Discord’s Shop. These coveted rewards include Nitro credits (Discord's premium subscription), unique profile badges, avatar decorations, profile effects, and other items from its collections.


The Orbs system also serves as a clever way to entice non-subscribers to experience Nitro, offering credits as an alternative to direct payment. For instance, 1,400 Orbs can grant you three free days of Nitro, which typically costs $10 per month.

This experiment, currently rolling out to a small user group but slated for global expansion, highlights Discord's innovative approach to user retention and revenue generation.

According to Peter Sellis, Discord’s Senior Vice President of Product, Quests have already shown promising results, with over 70 Quests achieving a 10% acceptance rate and millions of rewards earned over the past year.

While currently located in the bottom left corner of the app on PC, Quests are set to expand to mobile devices in June, broadening the reach to other form factors.

As social messaging platforms respond to market needs and technological changes, one thing is clear: digital communication is becoming more connected, personal, and interactive, reshaping how we stay in touch every day.

Do you think these developments could make messaging apps more than just chatting tools?

Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below!