X Integrates Grok AI Chatbot With Telegram in Major Expansion

Elon Musk’s xAI has integrated its Grok AI chatbot into Telegram, marking the first major expansion beyond Musk-owned platforms like X and the Grok app. The move positions Grok as a competitor to OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Google’s Gemini, leveraging Telegram’s 1 billion+ user base to amplify its reach.

Grok’s Telegram integration is exclusive to Premium subscribers, who can access the chatbot by searching “GrokAI” in the app. While the full feature set remains limited compared to its X implementation, users gain real-time data integration and coding assistance directly within chats. The partnership bundles Grok with Telegram Premium, potentially boosting subscription revenue for the messaging platform.

For xAI, the integration aligns with Musk’s vision of ubiquitous AI deployment. Grok 3, the latest iteration, boasts 10x compute power over its predecessor and emphasizes “maximally truth-seeking” responses, often delivering blunt, uncensored takes on politics and history. This approach contrasts with rivals like ChatGPT, which avoids controversial topics.

Telegram, meanwhile, gains a competitive edge in the AI race. The platform, facing legal challenges since 2024, aims to transition from a messaging app to a multifaceted ecosystem with features like cryptocurrency wallets and bot-driven automation. Grok’s arrival could attract tech-savvy users disillusioned with Meta’s data practices on WhatsApp.

Grok’s integration has drawn scrutiny from India’s IT Ministry over its savage replies, including Hindi slang and politically charged statements. While no formal notices have been issued, the chatbot’s unfiltered nature raises questions about misinformation and social engineering risks. Privacy advocates also warn about potential data access, though Telegram’s encryption framework may mitigate some concerns.

The move escalates the AI wars, with Grok challenging established players through its real-time capabilities and Musk’s influence. Users on X have praised its speed and honesty, though feature parity with X remains unclear. Analysts speculate broader integrations could follow, reshaping user expectations for AI tools in messaging apps.