Telegram likes to do things differently. Hence, when the requirement for a new Android-based developer turned up, the messaging app decided to come up with a unique coding contest for finding the right candidate fit enough to earn its salary package of Rs 8 crore per annum.
Offering an exceptionally lucrative annual salary exceeding Rs 8 crore (approximately $1 million after tax), along with a share of a $50,000 prize pool, Telegram’s unique recruitment process requires prospective candidates to win the Telegram Android Contest 2025.
The contest challenges participants to comprehensively redesign the profile section within the Telegram Android app. This includes user, business, group, and channel profiles, with a mandatory requirement for both light and dark theme support. All associated tabs and profile views, such as those displaying gifts, must also be incorporated into the redesign.
Applicants are instructed to build these screens from scratch using Java, strictly avoiding any third-party UI frameworks. The redesigned profiles must integrate seamlessly with Telegram’s existing Android codebase, ensuring no significant bugs or visual inconsistencies, states the posting.
How to submit for the Telegram contest
The deadline for submissions is July 11, 2025. Entries must be submitted via the @ContestBot on Telegram. Telegram says that the evaluation will primarily focus on the quality and performance of the code, with shortlisted solutions undergoing rigorous testing on a variety of Android devices to ensure broad compatibility and reliability.
The first round of the contest is currently open to all interested participants, with results expected to be announced later in July.
This high-stakes recruitment drive comes as Telegram continues its aggressive rollout of new features to stay ahead of rival WhatsApp. Previously, a significant update on June 3, 2025, introduced Direct Messages for Channels, allowing users to privately interact with channel administrators, alongside Voice Trimming capabilities, Topic Tabs for better group organisation, and the option to send HD Photos.
An update in late April 2025 brought extra-secure group calls, enhanced automation tools for Telegram Business accounts, expanded gifting features, and new intuitive gestures to streamline user interaction.