Messaging giant Telegram has taken a significant step towards integrating Web3 into its platform by launching a new in-app browser capable of supporting decentralized websites, known as TON Sites. This development, announced on July 31, 2024, has the potential to expose its vast user base of nearly one billion monthly active users to the decentralized web.
Telegram’s in-app browser allows users to seamlessly switch between messaging and browsing, creating a more integrated user experience. This innovation could potentially accelerate the adoption of Web3 applications, as users can easily access decentralized services without leaving the familiar Telegram interface.
To further enhance the user experience, Telegram has also introduced a Mini App Store, offering a range of applications accessible directly within the platform. These apps, which span various categories including games, utilities, and social tools, can be seamlessly integrated into the messaging experience.
The integration of Mini Apps has fueled the growth of a thriving ecosystem within Telegram. Games, in particular, have gained significant traction. Hamster Kombat, a tap-to-earn game launched just four months ago, has amassed an impressive 300 million players, solidifying its position as one of the platform’s most popular apps.
Catizen, a Web3 social entertainment platform, has also experienced remarkable growth on Telegram. With 26 million players and $16 million in in-app purchases since its March launch, Catizen has become a prominent example of the platform’s potential for fostering successful Web3 applications.
Both Hamster Kombat and Catizen leverage The Open Network (TON), Telegram’s blockchain, and its native cryptocurrency, Toncoin (TON), which has seen a meteoric rise of 467% in the past year. The success of these applications highlights the potential of Telegram as a launchpad for innovative Web3 projects.
The Open Network (TON) plays a crucial role in Telegram’s Web3 ambitions. The recent launch of the W5 smart wallet standard, developed in collaboration with Tonkeeper, marks a significant milestone in the platform’s evolution. By enabling gasless transactions, TON is making it easier for users to engage with the ecosystem without incurring additional fees.
This move aligns with Telegram’s broader goal of democratizing access to Web3. By lowering the barriers to entry, TON is poised to attract a wider range of users and developers, fostering a more inclusive and vibrant ecosystem.
Telegram’s foray into the Web3 space with its in-app browser, Mini App Store, and integration with TON represents a bold and strategic move. By combining the power of social messaging with the potential of decentralized applications, Telegram is positioning itself as a leading platform for the next generation of internet users. As the platform continues to evolve, it will be interesting to observe its impact on the broader Web3 landscape and the extent to which it can drive mass adoption of decentralized technologies.
