How to include preview images in Telegram bot responses?

Other Questions Telegram bot
1

I’m working on a PHP Telegram bot and I’m trying to figure out how to add preview images to my messages. Right now, I’m using the replyWithMessage method to send text responses. Here’s what my code looks like:

$response = $this->replyWithMessage([
    'text' => $item['title'] . "\n\n" . $url
]);

This works fine for text, but I want to make my bot’s responses more engaging by including an image before the text. Is there a way to do this with the current method I’m using? Or do I need to use a different approach altogether? I’ve looked through the Telegram Bot API docs but I’m not sure which method would be best for this. Any help or examples would be really appreciated!

2

I’ve been down this road before, mate. When I was building my first Telegram bot, I struggled with the same issue. The trick is to use the sendPhoto method instead of replyWithMessage. It’s a game-changer.

Here’s what worked for me:

$response = $bot->sendPhoto([
‘chat_id’ => $chat_id,
‘photo’ => $image_url,
‘caption’ => $item[‘title’] . “\n\n” . $url,
‘parse_mode’ => ‘HTML’
]);

The parse_mode parameter allows you to use HTML formatting in your caption if needed. Just make sure your $image_url is valid and accessible. This approach made my bot’s responses much more engaging and user-friendly. Give it a shot and see how it transforms your bot’s interactions!

3

To include preview images in your Telegram bot responses, you’ll need to switch from the replyWithMessage method to sendPhoto. This method allows you to send an image along with a caption. Here’s how you can modify your code:

$response = $this->sendPhoto([
    'photo' => $imageUrl,
    'caption' => $item['title'] . "\n\n" . $url
]);

Make sure $imageUrl points to a valid image file or URL. The caption can include both the title and the URL, just as you had in your original message. This approach will result in a more visually appealing and engaging response from your bot.

4

hey tom, for adding preview images, you should use sendPhoto method instead. it lets u send an image with caption. here’s a quick example:

$response = $bot->sendPhoto([
‘chat_id’ => $chatId,
‘photo’ => $imageUrl,
‘caption’ => $item[‘title’] . “\n\n” . $url
]);

hope this helps! lmk if u need anything else