Telegram and TON Forge Exclusive Blockchain Partnership
Telegram, one of the world's largest messaging platforms, has solidified its partnership with The Open Network (TON) through an exclusivity deal that positions TON as the sole blockchain for Telegram mini apps, including those with cryptocurrency integrations. This collaboration aims to expand TON’s influence and leverage Telegram’s massive user base of over 950 million active users.
Strengthening TON’s Global Standing
TON Foundation President Manual Stotz emphasized that this integration enhances TON's prominence in the blockchain space, calling it a "strategic step forward." With its extensive global reach, Telegram provides TON with a unique platform to drive blockchain innovation on an unprecedented scale.
A Rekindled Partnership
Telegram initially created the TON blockchain, then known as the Telegram Open Network, but abandoned the project in 2020 due to regulatory challenges. Despite this, development of TON continued independently through a community of builders, resulting in its rebranding as The Open Network. Over the past 18 months, Telegram and TON have grown increasingly interconnected, culminating in initiatives such as the launch of a TON Wallet app and tap-to-earn crypto games that have drawn hundreds of millions of users.
Telegram has also integrated Toncoin (TON) for ad revenue sharing with channel operators and introduced in-app features like Telegram Stars, a currency convertible to TON. This month, Telegram announced plans to enable users to mint and trade NFT-based stickers within the platform, further deepening its blockchain focus.
Exclusivity and Migration to TON
Under the new agreement, Telegram mini apps and games currently using other blockchains must transition to TON to maintain cryptocurrency functionality. Wallet protocols connected to non-TON chains will be limited to bridging assets, ensuring a unified and secure ecosystem. The TON Foundation is offering grants of up to $50,000 to projects that migrate within 30 days, though prior grant recipients will not qualify for additional funding.
A Vision for Web3 Growth
Stotz described the partnership as a natural alignment, with Telegram and TON sharing a commitment to open-source technology and fostering global Web3 adoption. The exclusivity deal allows Telegram to provide developers with a scalable and reliable blockchain solution while strengthening its position as a key player in the Web3 ecosystem.
This agreement represents a milestone for both parties, marking a new chapter in their collaborative journey and setting the stage for further innovations in blockchain-powered messaging and gaming.