Points
- Telegram introduces a new in-app browser that supports decentralized websites.
- The launch of TON Sites makes Web3 accessible to nearly a billion monthly users.
- Telegram also unveiled its Mini App store and a new payment system called Stars.
- Popular Telegram apps like Hamster Kombat and Catizen have seen significant user growth.
Telegram, the crypto-friendly social messaging platform, has unveiled a new in-app browser that supports decentralized websites, enhancing its functionality and user experience. Known as TON Sites, these decentralized websites are now accessible on both mobile and desktop versions of Telegram. This move is aimed at making Web3 technology immediately available to Telegram’s vast user base, which approaches nearly one billion monthly users.
The browser allows users to seamlessly switch between viewing websites and messaging, merging communication with news consumption. In a statement, Telegram’s CEO Pavel Durov highlighted the significance of this development, noting that it bridges the gap between traditional web browsing and the decentralized web, offering users a more integrated experience.
In addition to the browser, Telegram has also launched its Mini App store. This new feature allows users to access a variety of mini-apps directly within Telegram, enhancing the platform’s utility and engagement. The Mini App store includes search options, app previews, and the ability to share mini-apps within user Stories.
One notable aspect of this update is the introduction of Stars, a new payment system for the Mini Apps. Users can now send Stars to friends, facilitating microtransactions and enhancing the in-app experience. This payment system is expected to drive further engagement and monetization opportunities within the Telegram ecosystem.
Popular Telegram apps like Hamster Kombat and Catizen have already seen considerable user growth. Hamster Kombat, a crypto game where players tap a hamster to earn tokens and upgrade their virtual crypto exchange, recently surpassed 300 million players. Catizen, another Web3 social entertainment platform, has amassed 26 million players since its launch in March and has earned $16 million from in-app purchases, with a portion dedicated to rescuing stray cats.
CoinGecko data reveals that both Hamster Kombat and Catizen utilize The Open Network’s native cryptocurrency, Toncoin （TON）, which has seen a remarkable 467% increase to $6.78 over the last 12 months. This growth reflects the expanding adoption of TON and the increasing popularity of Telegram’s Web3 initiatives.
The TON Core team has also made strides in improving the blockchain infrastructure, recently launching its W5 smart wallet standard in collaboration with Tonkeeper. This new standard promises to deliver gasless transactions, further lowering barriers to entry for new users and enhancing the overall user experience on The Open Network.
解説
- Telegram’s integration of decentralized websites via TON Sites marks a significant step towards mainstream Web3 adoption.
- The Mini App store and Stars payment system are strategic moves to increase user engagement and create new revenue streams.
- The success of games like Hamster Kombat and Catizen demonstrates the potential for innovative Web3 applications to drive user growth and engagement.
- The collaboration with Tonkeeper to launch the W5 smart wallet standard showcases ongoing efforts to improve the usability and accessibility of blockchain technology.
- Telegram’s advancements highlight the platform’s commitment to staying at the forefront of technological innovation, offering its users cutting-edge tools and experiences.