The short answer
- 1Telegram downloads any file but opens only a few types itself.
- 2Other types need an app on your device that supports them.
- 3APK and program files from strangers are a common source of malware.
In this article
Telegram downloads files; other apps open them
Telegram can send any kind of file, but it only opens a few types itself. For the rest it hands the file to an app on your device. When nothing on the device can open that type, Android says: "You don't have applications that can handle the file type '…', please install one to continue."
| File type | What opens it |
|---|---|
| PDF, Word, Excel, PowerPoint | A document or office app; phones often include one |
| ZIP, RAR, 7z archives | A file manager or archive app that can extract them |
| Audio and video in unusual formats | A media player that supports that format; see a video won't play |
| APK (Android app installers) | Android's installer, with extra permission; see below |
| EXE, MSI, BAT and other programs | Only Windows computers, and only if you trust the sender |
If a file will not open even with the right app, it may not have finished downloading. Check that the progress has finished, then try again. A file that fails everywhere may be damaged; ask for it again.
APK files on Android
An APK is an app installer. Android blocks installs from Telegram unless you allow it, and Telegram says so: "APK installation is restricted for this app. You can enable this in system settings."
If you do allow it for a trusted file, turn the permission off again afterwards in the phone's settings for Telegram. For installing Telegram itself outside the app store, see 'App not installed' errors.
Program files on a computer
Telegram Desktop warns before running programs: "This file has the extension … It may harm your computer. Are you sure you want to run it?" Treat that warning seriously. Program files from chats and channels are a common way to spread malware, often disguised with names like "invoice", "photos" or a game crack.
Telegram Desktop also warns when opening some image files, such as SVG, that "can potentially expose your IP address to its creator." Only continue for files from people you trust.
Archives with a password
A password-protected archive needs the password from the sender. Telegram does not know it. Be wary of archives from strangers that come with a password in the message: the password is often there to stop security tools from looking inside.
Next step: where desktop downloads go, and turning off auto-download.
FAQ
Why can't I open a file from Telegram?
Your device has no app for that file type. Install one that supports it, or ask the sender for another format.
Why does Android say APK installation is restricted for Telegram?
Android blocks app installs from Telegram unless you allow it in system settings. Only do so for files you trust.
Is it safe to open EXE files from Telegram?
Only from people you trust. Program files from chats are a common way to spread malware.
Sources
At a glance
- 1Right app
Documents, archives and media need an app that supports them.
- 2APK
Blocked unless you allow it; only trusted sources.
- 3Programs
Telegram Desktop warns; take the warning seriously.
Updated
