We use messaging applications for a lot more than just sending messages. They have become crucial for our work, socializing and status updates. Just like them, Glory Casino Bangladesh App has become a household name. In terms of their reach, WhatsApp, Telegram and Signal take the lead with hundreds of millions of users across the globe. They, however, tend to have surface level knowledge in regard to the functionalities of the applications. Beyond the calling, texting and media sharing, there are more complex features aimed at enhancing the pleasure and security of communication.
This post will focus on the features that will transform the messaging experience on WhatsApp, Telegram and Signal. It doesn’t matter whether you use them on a casual or professional level, these features will ensure you use the application to its maximum capacity.
WhatsApp Secret Features That You Didn’t Know Exists
With more than 2.7 billion users as of 2025, WhatsApp remains the most used messaging application in the world. As much as most people are used to the basic functionalities of the application, it conceals handy features that can change the lives of its users.
1. Starred Messages
Have you ever lost a vital contact in a sea of conversations? The starred message function in WhatsApp lets you bookmark particular messages. To bookmark a particular message, simply long-press a message and select the star icon. You can access these messages by going to Settings > Starred Messages. Ideal for preserving passwords, travel information, or directions.
2. Disappearing Messages
This one is for the Privacy nuts. You can select messages to disappear after 24 hours, 7 days, or 90 days. To enable the function, enter a chat, tap the person’s name and toggle the Disappearing Messages function on. It helps keep conversations concise and secret.
3. WhatsApp Payments
In select countries, WhatsApp works similar to Venmo or Paypal by allowing you to send money within the app. You can send money instantly while chatting after linking your bank account to WhatsApp. This is useful for splitting bills or quick payments.
4. Two-Step Verification
For more advanced security, enable the Two-Step Verification function found under Settings > Account > Two-Step Verification. You’ll be asked to set a pin which would be required whenever you register your number again. This minimizes the chances of your account being hacked.
5. Personalized Alerts
Contacts can be assigned distinct ringtones as well as specific notifications. For instance, your boss can be assigned a different sound than your friend. Click on the chat head, and tap on edit. Select the Ringtone option from the menu.
Telegram Hidden Features You Will Actually Use
With a user base of 900 million as of 2025, Telegram likes to call itself the Swiss army knife of all messaging platforms. The app has an extensive set of features, some of which are so deep rooted, that even experienced users fail to uncover them.
1. Secret Chats
Should your priority be privacy, Telegram’s Secret Chats can provide end-to-end encryption, self-destructing messages, and alerts when someone takes a screenshot. To begin, go to the contact’s profile, click on the three vertical dots, and tap on Start Secret Chat.
2. Anything Bots Can Do, Telegram Bots Can Do Better
Telegram bots revolutionize an entire industry. Weather checking, currency conversion, and even some mini-games are automated by bots. For instance, the Telegram bot, @filetobot, can upload and manage large files in a matter of seconds.
3. Unlimited Cloud Storage
Telegram, unlike WhatsApp, allows users to upload files of 2GB each on the cloud and store them permanently. You can even send a message to yourself and use the ‘Saved Messages’ chat to store your documents, photos, and videos forever.
4. Multiple Accounts in a Single Application
What about managing both personal and professional use cases independently? Telegram allows you to add three accounts on to a single application without requiring multiple devices. Simply go to Settings > Add Account.
5. User Defined Themes and Custom Animation Backgrounds
If you find the interface monotonous and want to customize the telegram backgrounds or even the chats, then you can customize themes and color palettes as well as create animated backgrounds. Also, all the memories you create can be shared.
Hidden Features of Signal that Make it Unique
Although less popular than WhatsApp and Telegram, it is the app of choice for people focused on their privacy. It is supported by privacy advocates and even recommended by Elon Musk. It has some delightful features.
1. Note to Self
Unlike WhatsApp, where you can self-chat, in Signal there is a separate Note to Self function. It can serve as a simple file or a digital notebook where you can dump reminders, handles, or even documents in your other devices.
2. Attachments that Disappear
You can send videos and photos that are able to be viewed only for a single occasion. These are best suited for delicate and sensitive information that you want to secure in someone’s gallery or app.
3. Privacy Options in Signal
This allows you to block screenshots on your app. Simply go to Settings > Privacy > Screen Privacy. It stops the potential leaks of sensitive chats, whether it is by accident or deliberately.
4. Voice and Video Calls with Encryption
Unlike most applications that profess to protect user privacy, Signal takes the extra step by encrypting and securing voice and video calls with end-to-end encryption. This means that only you and the other party can access the content of the conversation, making it one of the most secure applications to communicate with not only text, but voice and video calls as well.
5. Incognito Keyboard Signals Voice and Video Calls with Encryption
Signal can also prevent the keyboard from ‘learning’ text during a conversation, so no data is collected whenever you need to send a private, sensitive text.
WhatsApp vs. Telegram vs. Signal: Quick Comparison
The table below outlines some of the lesser-known functionalities of the three applications:
| Feature | Telegram | Signal | |
| Disappearing Messages | ✅ (24h–90d) | ✅ (custom timers) | ✅ (custom timers + attachments) |
| Payments | ✅ (limited regions) | ❌ | ❌ |
| Cloud Storage | ❌ (limited backup) | ✅ Unlimited (2GB/file) | ❌ |
| Multiple Accounts | ❌ | ✅ (up to 3) | ❌ |
| Secret/Private Chats | ❌ (basic encryption) | ✅ Secret Chats | ✅ End-to-end by default |
| Self-Messaging | ✅ (via groups trick) | ✅ Saved Messages | ✅ Note to Self |
Tips for Becoming a Power User
Stay Updated: Some functions that were recently added in the latest update do not receive any form of highlight. It is important to always stay current for your application.
- Check the Settings: Many hidden features tend to lie within the Settings, do not skip it.
- Test out bots and other shortcuts: With Telegram, bots can especially help reduce tedious, time-consuming work.
- Your privacy is paramount: Enable two-factor authorization and disappearing messages whenever you can.
Why These Features Matter
These hidden features aren’t just “nice to have.” They’re tools for:
- Privacy: Disappearing messages and encryption protect your data.
- Productivity: Custom notifications, bots, and cloud storage streamline your daily routine.
- Convenience: Sending payments, saving notes, and self-messaging reduce the need for extra apps.
By mastering these little-known tricks, you transform WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal from basic messaging platforms into all-in-one communication hubs.
Final Thoughts
Most users only scratch the surface of what messaging apps can do. “ WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal each offer unique hidden features that can make your digital life more efficient, secure and enjoyable. From WhatsApp’s payments to Telegram’s bots and Signal’s iron clad privacy, these apps are far more powerful than they seem.”
So, the next time you open your favorite chat app, take a few minutes to dive into the settings. You might just discover a feature that changes the way you connect with others.