The Open Network Foundation, a non-profit organization supporting the TON blockchain, has partnered exclusively with Telegram to serve as the blockchain infrastructure for its mini-app platform, which supports more than 950 million monthly active users. Since their collaboration began in 2023, the TON ecosystem has seen significant growth, aided by Telegram’s advertising features and integration of Toncoin for transactions within its mini-apps. A key part of this partnership is the adoption of TON Connect as the sole protocol for linking Telegram mini apps to blockchain wallets, streamlining the user experience for Web3 applications by requiring all mini apps to utilize TON Connect for blockchain transactions within the next month. In addition, Telegram will exclusively accept Toncoin for non-fiat payments for its services, including Telegram Stars, Premium subscriptions, and advertisements.

Toncoin will also be the only payment method for developers and channel owners earning revenue on the platform. Moreover, Telegram plans to tokenize digital assets such as emojis and stickers on the TON blockchain, as well as limited-edition NFTs. Manuel Stotz, president of the Open Network Foundation, emphasized the potential for growth in 2025, highlighting Telegram’s global reach as a crucial asset in promoting TON. Developers are urged to begin transitioning to meet the upcoming deadlines for using the new system, with additional benefits available for those who adhere to the timeline. The TON Foundation, which operates independently and collaborates with community members, provides guidelines for this migration process. In a message regarding gaming on Telegram, Stotz noted that this streamlined wallet connection through TON Connect will enhance the user experience, making it simpler for new players and developers to engage with the platform without having to adapt to multiple wallet solutions.