New algorithm for Telegram channel search rankings

Many users have noticed that since early September, Telegram’s search algorithm has started working differently. Previously, a channel’s position in search depended mainly on its subscriber count, but now several new ranking factors have been introduced. In this article, we’ll break down the updated algorithm.

What’s changed?

Telegram rarely shares details about its algorithms, but Pavel Durov made an exception in September 2023, revealing that channels with more Premium subscribers would rank higher – unless those subscribers followed too many channels (to prevent artificial boosting).

In September 2024, users observed erratic behavior: channels kept disappearing and reappearing in search. Initially dismissed as a bug, Durov later confirmed this was intentional, part of making search “much safer.” However, admins quickly noticed flaws – even compliant channels vanished intermittently, and newer channels became nearly unfindable.

This shift likely aligns with Telegram’s long-term goal of creating an in-app recommendation feed, similar to social media algorithms.

How to adapt

Arbitrage experts agree that Telegram has overhauled its search algorithm. Beyond Premium subscribers, AI now analyzes user behavior (likes, comments, dwell time) to personalize rankings. Channels violating platform rules or lacking engagement may be penalized.

Confirmed ranking factors include:

• Relevant keywords in the channel name/description, plus regular posts using mid- and low-frequency keywords.
• Geo-targeting: Premium subscribers should match the channel’s intended region. Mismatches risk removal from search.
• Bot restrictions: Channels must use anti-spam bots, as artificial bot boosts (even by competitors) harm rankings.

Challenges & predictions

The abrupt rollout left many uncertainties. A month later, half the ranking factors remain unknown. Testing is difficult – many new channels aren’t indexed, even via direct links.

Some traffic arbitrageurs report minimal impact, while others burned budgets testing ineffective strategies. Moving forward, channels require careful warming up:

• Use targeted keywords consistently.
• Grow bots/subscribers gradually over weeks.
• Focus on channels aged 6+ months.

The era of quick wins – buying channels, stuffing keywords, and boosting Premium subs – is over. Now, sustained effort is needed to rank, but properly optimized channels will be harder to displace.