This guide (based on the provided transcript) explains why +86 (Mainland China) phone numbers often fail to receive Telegram verification codes and how to regain access for free. Core ideas: avoid registering new Telegram accounts with +86 due to interception/identification risks; instead, obtain a low-cost U.S. number via Talkatone (TT) for stable OTP reception. If your existing +86 account can’t log in, first sign in with the alternative client Telegram X (it’s functionally similar to Telegram). Even when the official app is blocked, Telegram X is more likely to succeed; once you log in there, the system can deliver an internal verification code that lets you complete login on the official Telegram client. After you’re back in, change the bound phone number to your Talkatone number to reduce exposure, simplify future OTP delivery, and prevent “lost account” issues. The flow is: do not register new with +86 → use Talkatone to get a U.S. number → for locked old accounts, log in via Telegram X → receive the internal code → log back into official Telegram → change bound number to Talkatone. This approach is simple, free, and focused on privacy and long-term account continuity.
