Telegram Designates TON Blockchain as Exclusive Partner: How Does This Benefit the Ton Blockchain?

Telegram Designates TON Blockchain as Exclusive Partner: How Does This Benefit the Ton Blockchain?

Telegram has announced a groundbreaking exclusivity agreement, establishing The Open Network (TON) as the sole blockchain infrastructure for its ecosystem.

This move represents a significant shift in Telegram’s blockchain strategy, deepening its collaboration with TON—launched initially as the Telegram Open Network. The announcement was made via a post on the platform, which boasts over 950 million active users worldwide, emphasizing its commitment to delivering a secure and seamless user experience.

“We agreed with the TON Foundation to make TON the exclusive blockchain partner of Telegram,” the company stated.

TON’s blog further elaborated, highlighting that this standardization would enhance user experience by providing a consistent and predictable platform while offering more excellent protection against scams. Under the new agreement, all Mini Apps and games utilizing cryptocurrency functionalities must transition to the TON blockchain. A migration deadline for those not yet using TON has been set for February 21, 2025.

“All Mini Apps on Telegram will now exclusively use TON as their blockchain infrastructure. Any Mini Apps that don’t currently use TON must migrate by February 21, 2025. Let’s get started,” TON declared on X (formerly Twitter).

Additionally, TON Connect will serve as the exclusive wallet integration protocol for all Telegram Mini Apps, with exceptions made only for bridging scenarios, according to TON Foundation President Manuel Stotz.

A Renewed Partnership

This collaboration marks the rekindling of Telegram’s partnership with TON after several years apart. The TON project was originally developed by Telegram, but it faced regulatory hurdles and was handed over to independent developers in 2020. Since then, the TON Foundation has driven the project forward, working with Telegram to reintroduce features like the TON Wallet app, crypto-based games, and in-app currencies like Toncoin (TON).

Beyond tokenization and payouts, Telegram is set to use TON for innovative projects, such as creating tradable NFTs as in-app stickers. However, developers utilizing other blockchains like Sui (SUI) or Aptos (APT) must migrate to TON to continue using Telegram’s crypto features.

Related article: Toncoin (TON) Faces a 5.38% Weekly Dip: What’s Next for the Telegram-Backed Crypto?

To support this transition, the TON Foundation offers grants of up to $50,000 for projects that migrate within a 30-day window. However, projects that have already received grants from the Foundation are not eligible.

Strengthening Security and Reducing Scams

Security concerns may also drive telegram’s decision to consolidate its blockchain activities under TON. Recent data from Scam Sniffer revealed a staggering 2,000% rise in crypto phishing attacks on Telegram since November 2024. Scammers have exploited the platform’s open environment to target users with fraudulent schemes.

By centralizing crypto integrations within TON, Telegram aims to reduce these risks. The exclusivity deal allows the platform to enforce stricter standards for crypto functionalities in Mini Apps, potentially minimizing vulnerabilities and boosting user trust.

“This standardization will be great for Telegram users, offering them a consistent, predictable experience and better protection against scams,” Telegram noted.

Criticism and Challenges

While the exclusivity deal positions Telegram to streamline and secure its blockchain operations, it also draws criticism. Developers relying on alternative blockchains now face the challenge of transitioning to TON, particularly given the tight 30-day migration window.

“…nothing says self-sovereign like forcing people to use your system. Permissionless. Composable. Open. These are the standards of Web3. I had hoped Telegram was better than this. It wouldn’t be so bad if the TON chain was decentralized and scalable,” remarked Graeme Blackwood, UX and Creative Director at Argent, a smart wallet firm.

Disclaimer: The information in this article should not be considered financial advice, and FXCryptoNews articles are intended only to provide educational and general information. Please consult with a financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

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