Known for its strong privacy features and user-friendly interface, the popular messaging app Telegram has taken a significant step in the Web3 world. On July 31, Telegram announced the launch of a new in-app browser that supports decentralized websites, called “TON Sites.” This move will make Web3 technology easily accessible to Telegram’s approximately 950 million users, allowing them to explore and interact with decentralized websites directly within the app.
What’s New in the App?
The new in-app browser is available on both mobile and desktop platforms, enabling users to seamlessly switch between browsing and messaging. The integration of Web3 technology into Telegram’s platform marks a significant development that makes it easier for millions of people to experience the benefits of decentralized web browsing. Telegram’s CEO Pavel Durov emphasized that this feature effectively combines communication with web browsing, allowing users to launch their own web servers and host websites on the Open Network (TON).
In addition to the in-app browser, Telegram also introduced a Mini App Store. This store offers various applications that users can interact with directly within the Telegram app. Among these new features is the ability to send “Stars,” Mini App payment units, to friends. Telegram reported that over 500 million users interact with Mini Apps each month, highlighting their significant integration and popularity within the platform.
Two Popular Apps and Value Increase
Two popular apps on Telegram, Hamster Kombat and Catizen, demonstrate the growing adoption of cryptocurrency on the platform. Hamster Kombat, a touch-to-win game, attracted 300 million players in just four months, making it the third fastest app to reach 150 million users.
Catizen, a Web3 social entertainment platform, has rapidly gained 26 million users since its launch in March and generated $16 million in in-app purchases. Impressively, a portion of these earnings was donated to rescue street cats, showing the app’s commitment to social causes.
Both Hamster Kombat and Catizen use Toncoin (TON), the main cryptocurrency of The Open Network. Over the past year, the value of Toncoin has increased by 467%, reaching $6.78. This rise in value reflects the growing acceptance and use of TON within Telegram’s ecosystem.
