Telegram is one of the more popular internet messaging apps around in the world primarily hailed for its security features and ability to create large-scale groups and channels. While the app’s user interface is rather simple, you will come across several icons that you might not understand.
In this article, we’re talking about all the Telegram icons and symbols you need to know about.
Telegram main screen icons
These are the icons you’ll see on the main Telegram screen.

Icon | Description |
---|---|
Hamburger menu | This opens up the main Telegram profile and settings menu |
Search icon | This lets you quickly search through contacts and chats |
Pin icon inside a circle | This appears in front of any pinned chats |
Slashed loudspeaker | This appears in front of any muted chats |
Number in front of any chat or group | This shows the number of unread messages in that particular chat |
Pencil icon inside a circle | Used to quickly start a new chat, group, secret chat or channel. After tapping once it converts into a contact-adding button |
Also read: How to play Telegram videos in MX Player?
DM and Group icons
Here are all the icons that you might see when messaging someone either individually or in a group.

Icon | Description |
---|---|
Single green check | This means that your message has been sent to the Telegram servers and the recipient has been notified |
Double green checks | This means that the recipient has read your message |
Red exclamation mark | This indicates that your message couldn’t be sent after trying for five minutes |
Eye icon with a number | This indicates the approximate number of views on your message. Only visible in groups |
Emoji icon | Opens the emoji menu |
Slash icon in a box | Opens the bot command window |
Paper clip | This is the attachment button, used to add media files to a message |
Mic icon | Opens up the voice note interface |
Down arrow with number | Shows the number of unread messages in the group or chat. Tapping it will take you to the latest message |
Also read: What is Telegram limit exceeded? Quick Fix