Telegram adds brand-new feature rival WhatsApp can only dream of

Telegram has pushed-out a significant update to its Android messaging app.

The encrypted messenger is one of the most popular chat apps available right now, nipping at the heels of industry-leader .

The latest update brings some interesting new features, including the ability to add multiple accounts.

Telegram users can now add up to three separate accounts that each use their own phone number.

Users can cycle between the accounts by tapping on the menu icon and picking their chosen profile.

By default, Telegram will send your smartphone notifications for activity on any of the accounts.

However, this can be toggled on a per-account basis within the notification settings.

This is likely to prove immensely popular with users.

Those who want to keep their work and personal accounts entirely separate can do so without the need to move to another app.

WhatsApp does not currently offer multiple accounts within its chat app.

The chat app is linked to a mobile phone number, with users only able to associate their app with one number at a time.

Users with dual-SIM smartphones are required to choose one number to verify with WhatsApp. There is no option to have a WhatsApp account with two phone numbers.

, an entirely-new app designed to enable companies to reach-out and talk to consumers using WhatsApp, will .

Elsewhere, Telegram 4.7 brings support for quick replies.

When inside a conversation, users need only swipe left on any message and the app will bring-up the option to quickly reply to that specific message.

Telegram 4.7 is available to download in the Google Play Store today.