In a twist fit for a tech thriller, Russia’s largest telecommunications company, MTS, has announced plans to launch an advertising service targeting Russian Telegram users. But hold your horses! Telegram has swooped in to deny any formal partnership. Let’s unravel this digital mystery.

The Grand Announcement

On October 17, MTS made waves by unveiling their ambitious advertising service designed specifically for Telegram. They claim this service will allow clients to reach out to users based on channel preferences, interests, and even geolocation. Basically, it’s like a digital Cupid, except instead of love, it’s ads that are being shot out based on phone numbers of Russian operators.

Telegram’s Take

Cut to Remi Vaughn, a Telegram spokesperson, who stepped in with a waterslide of reality checks. Vaughn stated, “There are no ad-related agreements between Telegram and any Russian firms, including MTS.” So, what gives? According to Vaughn, MTS might just be dabbling with Telegram’s ad platform through global agencies, but a formal relationship? Nope. Not happening.

What MTS Is Offering

MTS has presented their advertising service as a tool for promoting messages, groups, and bots within Telegram. They’re aiming big, with the potential to connect with a whopping daily audience of 55 million Russians. Elena Melnikova, MTS’s advertising director, chimed in to explain that Russian businesses can tap into external data—because who wouldn’t want to mix their databases with a dash of analytics?

• Target Telegram users based on external data.
• Utilize MTS Big Data segments.
• No minimum budget necessary for ad campaigns.

Making Ads Affordable

One of the more appealing aspects of MTS’s offering is its affordability. Small and medium-sized businesses can get in on the action without breaking the bank. Ads directed to their own customer databases are set at a fixed cost of 90 kopecks—roughly $0.0092. A bargain if you ask us!

Legal Assurance

MTS assured potential clients that all advertisements launched through their service comply with Russian advertising regulations. With over 80 million subscribers under their belt, they’re hoping to turn Telegram into a trusted venue for targeted advertising.

The Road Ahead

As Cointelegraph continues to dig for concrete answers, the question remains—will MTS be able to bring this service to fruition without a partnership with Telegram? Or are they just trying to stir the pot? Guess we’ll have to stay tuned to see how this plays out in the ever-evolving digital landscape.

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