Telegram founder Pavel Durov has unveiled an ambitious plan to integrate Web3 capabilities into the popular messaging app. The new features, set to launch by the end of July, include a mini app store and an in-app browser supporting decentralized web pages.
Durov highlighted that the new in-app browser will allow users to access Web3 sites, enhancing the user experience with decentralized applications directly within Telegram. This move aims to make blockchain technology more accessible to Telegram’s vast user base, which exceeds 700 million people globally.
The mini app store will host a variety of lightweight, JavaScript-based services, commonly referred to as mini-apps. These apps range from shopping platforms to gaming experiences, and they do not require separate installations. Over 500 million users interact with these mini-apps monthly, underscoring their popularity and utility.
Durov emphasized that these innovations are part of a broader strategy to position Telegram at the forefront of blockchain adoption. He believes 2024 will be a pivotal year for blockchain awareness, with Telegram playing a crucial role in this transformation.
One of the standout features of this update is the integration with the TON (The Open Network) blockchain. This integration has already seen success with crypto-based games like Notcoin and Hamster Kombat. Hamster Kombat, for instance, has attracted 239 million users within just three months, with 4-5 million daily players.
In response to the growing popularity and potential risks associated with blockchain-based applications, Telegram is also enhancing its security measures. Public user accounts will now display the month and country of registration, similar to Instagram, to improve transparency. Additionally, Telegram will introduce a decentralized verification system for channels using mini-apps, aimed at reducing fraud and enhancing trust within the community.
Despite the excitement surrounding these developments, some experts remain cautious about the sustainability of the tap-to-earn gaming trend. Critics argue that while the concept has potential, it needs strategic development to address its inherent limitations.
Market analysts, however, are optimistic about the impact of Telegram’s Web3 initiatives. They believe these new features will significantly boost Web3 adoption by seamlessly bridging the gap between traditional Web2 and emerging Web3 technologies.
These updates are part of Telegram’s broader vision to transform how users interact with digital services and blockchain technology. By integrating these features directly into its platform, Telegram is set to offer a more unified and accessible experience for users worldwide, fostering a more decentralized and secure digital ecosystem.
Telegram’s latest advancements mark a significant step in the evolution of the app, potentially setting new standards for integrating blockchain technology in social media and messaging platforms.
