TON Connect, the wallet connect protocol for The Open Network (TON), will now serve as the exclusive method for integrating Telegram Mini Apps with blockchain wallets. The Open Network Foundation, which supports the TON community, expanded its partnership with Telegram, establishing TON as the only blockchain infrastructure for Telegram's Mini App Ecosystem, which has a user base exceeding 950 million monthly active users. Since their partnership began in 2023, the TON ecosystem has seen remarkable growth, bolstered by updates to Telegram's Mini App Platform and the integration of Toncoin for transactions. The exclusivity agreement strengthens the technical relationship between TON and Telegram. TON Connect will streamline the user experience, requiring all Telegram Mini Apps to use it for blockchain transactions, including custodial and non-custodial wallets, user authorization, and on-chain signatures. Additionally, Toncoin is designated as the sole cryptocurrency for Telegram's platform payments, including services like Telegram Stars and Telegram Premium. Telegram also aims to tokenize various digital assets, such as emojis and stickers, on the TON Blockchain, offering limited edition gifts as NFTs.

Manuel Stotz, President of the TON Foundation, expressed confidence in the partnership's potential for significant growth in 2025, aiming to empower over 500 million users by the decade's end. Developers are encouraged to migrate to TON Connect to ensure a smooth transition, with support and incentives available for those who comply within the given timeframe. The Open Network Foundation, established in Switzerland in 2023, is a nonprofit organization that promotes the TON protocol and ecosystem development while operating independently and embracing community contributions. TON aims to make cryptocurrency accessible to everyone and empower users to take control of their digital identities and assets. For further details about the initiatives and developments regarding TON and Telegram, visit their official websites.