I’m running into two problems while working with Telegram Bot callbacks and need some help figuring this out.
First issue: I want to redirect users to external links (like Telegram channels or websites) using the AnswerCallbackQuery method. I noticed there’s a URL parameter available, but every time I try to use it with any URL, I keep getting an “URL_Invalid” error. What am I doing wrong here?
Second issue: When I add URL buttons directly to my inline keyboard, the AnswerCallbackQuery function stops getting triggered completely. Is there a workaround to still capture user clicks and run my callback logic even when using URL buttons?
Has anyone dealt with similar callback and URL handling issues before? Any suggestions would be really helpful.
yeah, I hit the same wall with telegram bot callbacks. the url in AnswerCallbackQuery only works with telegram’s internal urls (the tg://resolve stuff) - regular http links won’t work. and for your second issue - url buttons don’t trigger callbacks at all. that’s just how telegram built it. try the web_app parameter instead of direct urls. you’ll get way more control over what happens when users interact with your bot.
The URL parameter in AnswerCallbackQuery can be quite tricky as it is strict about the formats it accepts. It typically allows only specific schemes like tg:// which are tailored for Telegram’s internal functionality such as deep links to other bots or app features. Unfortunately, it doesn’t work for general external URLs, which is why you’re encountering that ‘URL_Invalid’ error.
Regarding your second concern, the behavior you’re seeing is expected because URL buttons on inline keyboards bypass the callback mechanism entirely. They function like standard hyperlinks, leading users straight to the specified link. If you want to keep track of clicks on those links, a possible solution is to implement a redirection endpoint on your server that logs the click before forwarding to the destination. Alternatively, you could consider using callback_data buttons that enable you to process logic before sending users a link.
In my experience with Telegram bots, the URL parameter in AnswerCallbackQuery is indeed limited to specific Telegram schemes like tg://. Attempting to use standard web links will consistently result in an ‘URL_Invalid’ error. Regarding your second point, it’s generally advisable to avoid mixing URL buttons with callback buttons. Instead, utilize callback_data buttons solely, allowing you to manage the redirects on your end. When clicked, you can execute your desired logic, then send a follow-up message containing the link. This method preserves the callback functionality while still directing users efficiently.