Can you use Telegram without a phone number?

Telegram requires users to verify their accounts using a phone number. This phone number is used for authentication and to connect with your contacts. However, Telegram has introduced a feature called "Telegram Passport," which allows users to log in to third-party services without exposing their phone numbers.

Here's how Telegram Passport works:

1. **Phone Number Verification**: Initially, you need to verify your Telegram account with a phone number. This step is necessary for creating an account and accessing Telegram's features.

2. **Telegram Passport**: Once your account is set up, you can use Telegram Passport to authenticate with third-party services without sharing your phone number. Telegram Passport securely stores your personal data, including your identity documents, in the cloud.

3. **Authentication with Third-party Services**: When you want to log in to a service that supports Telegram Passport, you can choose to authenticate using Telegram. Instead of providing your phone number directly to the service, Telegram acts as an intermediary, verifying your identity and providing the necessary information without revealing your phone number.

It's important to note that while Telegram Passport offers a way to authenticate with third-party services without sharing your phone number directly, the initial registration process still requires phone number verification.

Keep in mind that Telegram's features and policies may change over time, so it's a good idea to check Telegram's official website or announcements for the most up-to-date information on account creation and authentication methods.