Telegram Revealed Prohibitions Imposed on Other Blockchain Integrations
Telegram has disclosed restrictions placed on other blockchain integrations following an exclusive partnership with The Open Network (TON) for crypto applications and gaming. The messaging platform, led by Pavel Durov, rekindled its formal alliance with TON, announcing an exclusivity agreement on January 22. This agreement mandates that all mini-apps featuring crypto integrations must utilize TON. In return, the platform promises a range of benefits for projects adopting the network.
Strategic Step Forward for TON
Manual Stotz, head of the Ton Foundation, praised the exclusive integration with Telegram, describing it as a significant move that will bolster TON’s position as a leading global blockchain. He noted Telegram’s status as one of the foremost messaging apps worldwide, boasting over 950 million active users. Stotz emphasized that the agreement presents a unique opportunity for TON at the forefront of blockchain innovation.
Telegram’s History with TON
Telegram originally developed TON, initially known as the Telegram Open Network, but abandoned the project in 2020 amidst regulatory challenges. This led to a community-led effort to continue its development, culminating in the launch of The Open Network.
Telegram Announces Exclusive Deal with TON
The relationship between Telegram and TON has intensified since mid-2023, particularly with the introduction of the TON Wallet app, which has sparked a new wave of tap-to-earn games. Titles such as Notcoin and Hamster Kombat have drawn in hundreds of millions of users. Furthermore, Telegram facilitates channel operators by allowing them to earn a portion of advertising revenue through Toncoin (TON). This initiative includes an associated currency, Telegram Stars, which can be redeemed for TON within the app.
Migration and Exclusivity Requirements
As part of the exclusivity agreement, Telegram mini-apps and games that previously used SUI and Aptos networks are required to transition to the TON blockchain. This migration will also involve the TON Connect protocol, ensuring that these applications retain their crypto functionalities. Stotz clarified that existing wallet protocols for non-TON chains will be prohibited, but users will still have the option to bridge assets from competing blockchains. Apps with crypto features will exclusively operate on the TON blockchain to ensure scalability and security for users.
Grants for Migration Projects
The TON Foundation has confirmed that it will provide grants to projects transitioning to TON within a 30-day period, with funding capped at $50,000 based on audience size. However, previous beneficiaries will not be eligible for this grant initiative.
Is TON-Telegram Marriage Timely?
The announcement from Telegram and the TON team coincided with significant political developments, including President Donald Trump’s return to the Oval Office following a pro-crypto campaign. The shift in crypto regulation is notable with the replacement of SEC chair Gary Gensler, who had a reputation for being antagonistic towards the industry, by pro-crypto Commissioner Mark Uyeda in an interim role, leading to a smoother transition to Paul Atkins, Trump’s nominee.
Strategic Alignment Beyond Politics
While Stotz did not directly reference political changes, he acknowledged that partnerships often develop over time and viewed Telegram’s declaration as a natural yet strategic alignment. With extensive experience advocating for open-source technology, he believes that both Telegram and TON are well-positioned to foster the development of a global Web3 community.
Robust Solutions for Developers and Users
Stotz reassured that TON aligns with Telegram’s objective of providing robust, scalable, and reliable solutions for developers and users through the exclusive use of the TON blockchain.
Editorial credit: Sergei Elagin / Shutterstock.com
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