![[Telegram Tips & Shorts] How to Customize Chat Folder Icons & Left Sidebar Tabs on Desktop and macOS](https://tgway.com/images/guides/guide_122.webp?v=1788576676)
How to Customize Chat Folder Icons & Left Sidebar Tabs on Telegram Desktop and macOS
Transform your cluttered chat feed into a productivity command center. Learn how to assign tailored folder icons, dock your folders into an ultra-accessible left sidebar on macOS, and speed up cross-channel communication.
dashboard_customize Why Organize with Custom Icons and Sidebar Tabs?
Power users, community moderators, developers, and crypto traders frequently participate in dozens or even hundreds of Telegram groups, channels, and direct messages. When all conversations blend into a single chronological stream, critical notifications get buried under casual chatter.
Telegram's built-in Chat Folders solve information overload by grouping related chats into dedicated tabs. However, on desktop displays with ample horizontal screen real estate, Telegram Desktop and Telegram for macOS unlock two game-changing ergonomic enhancements: Custom Folder Icons (such as briefcases, rockets, graduation caps, or coins) and the Tabs on the Left layout that docks your entire folder navigation into an accessible vertical sidebar.
checklist Step-by-Step Customization Playbook
Right-Click Any Folder
On Telegram Desktop or macOS, right-click (or secondary-click) any folder tab at the top or side of your chat list. Select Edit Folder from the context menu.
Pick a Distinct Icon
Click the folder icon slot next to the folder name. A curated palette of dozens of icons (briefcases, game controllers, study books, stars, lock symbols) will appear. Pick the one that matches your category.
Enable Left Tabs (macOS)
On Telegram for macOS, navigate to Settings > Chat Folders. Toggle the switch for Tabs on the Left to instantly anchor your folders into a slim vertical left dock.
Keyboard Hotkeys
Jump instantly across folders using hotkeys! Press Ctrl + 1 through Ctrl + 9 on Windows/Linux or Cmd + 1 through Cmd + 9 on Mac to switch without moving your mouse.
psychology High-Efficiency Folder Architectures
1. 💼 Work & Clients: Direct DMs with coworkers and project channels (Exclude: Muted chats).
2. 🪙 Crypto & Finance: Web3 alpha groups, trading bots, and market update feeds.
3. 📰 Daily News: Curated tech and global news channels with notifications muted by default.
4. 🤖 Utilities & Bots: AI assistants, file conversion bots, and automated RSS webhooks.
5. 🏡 Personal: Family, close friends, and private group chats.
help_outline Frequently Asked Questions
Telegram Chat Folder Icons & Sidebar Customization at a Glance
A high-resolution architectural reference illustrating folder icon customization, macOS vertical left docking, and hotkey switching workflows.
