KEYTAKEAWAYS
- Telegram launches in-app browser and mini-app store
- New features include support for decentralized TON Sites and improved app discovery
CONTENT
The popular messaging platform introduces a new browser with support for decentralized websites, an enhanced mini-app store, and a payment system using ‘Stars’. This move aims to bring Web3 capabilities to Telegram’s vast user base.
Telegram, the crypto-friendly messaging platform, has rolled out a significant update featuring an in-app browser and an enhanced mini-app store. This move marks a substantial step towards integrating Web3 functionalities into the popular communication app.
The new in-app browser allows users to seamlessly switch between websites and platform messaging. Notably, it supports decentralized websites hosted on The Open Network (TON), known as TON Sites. Telegram CEO Pavel Durov announced these features on the messaging app, highlighting the platform’s commitment to advancing decentralized technologies.
Source: Du Rove’s Telegram Channel
In a blog post on Wednesday, the Telegram team emphasized the significance of this update: “Telegram’s browser supports decentralized websites hosted on TON — in all mobile and native desktop apps. This makes Web3 immediately available to our almost one billion monthly users.”
The update also introduces improvements to Telegram’s mini-app store. Users can now benefit from enhanced search options, preview apps from developers, and share mini-apps in their Stories. Additionally, Telegram has implemented a new payment system using ‘Stars’, which users can send to their friends within the platform.
This development follows Durov’s initial announcement of plans to implement the in-app browser and mini-app store on July 19. The platform has seen significant growth in its gaming ecosystem this year, with web3 games like Catizen gaining popularity and generating substantial revenue through in-app purchases.
The integration of The Open Network’s native cryptocurrency, Toncoin (TON), into popular Telegram games like Catizen and Hamster Kombat further underscores the platform’s embrace of blockchain technology. As of the latest update, TON was trading at $6.79, showing a 1.05% increase over the past 24 hours.
>> Also read:
With this update, Telegram continues to position itself at the forefront of integrating decentralized technologies into mainstream communication platforms, potentially reshaping how users interact with Web3 applications and decentralized finance.
