# Telegram Channels Setup

Native Telegram support was added in Claude Code v2.1.80. No MCP server needed.

## What you get

- **v2.1.80+**: Claude Code can send messages to Telegram
- **v2.1.81+**: Permission relay - Claude pauses on sensitive actions and sends
  you an approval request on Telegram. You approve or deny from your phone.

This is the closest Claude Code equivalent to OpenClaw's native channel integrations.

## Setup

1. Open Claude Code settings (gear icon or `/config`)
2. Navigate to Channels or Integrations
3. Select Telegram and click Connect
4. A Telegram bot will send you a link or code to authorize
5. Complete authorization in the Telegram app

## Usage

Once connected, Claude Code can:

```
Send me a Telegram message when the build finishes
```

```
Ask for my approval before deleting any files
```

For permission relay specifically, Claude will send a message like:
"I'm about to run `rm -rf ./dist`. Approve? [Yes] [No]"
You tap Yes or No. Claude proceeds or stops based on your response.

## Note on MCP alternative

If you need Telegram features not covered by the native integration,
the `telegram-bot-api` MCP server is available as a fallback.
For most use cases, the native integration is sufficient and simpler.