Telegram Goes Exclusive With TON, Barring Other Blockchains from Apps and Games

Telegram has officially announced a significant shift in its blockchain strategy, making The Open Network (TON) the exclusive blockchain infrastructure for its Mini App ecosystem. The decision, revealed on January 21, will phase out support for all other blockchain networks, including popular options like Solana, Sui, and Aptos, from Telegram's in-app services.

This exclusivity agreement with the TON Foundation cements TON's position as Telegram's preferred blockchain partner and marks a new chapter in their ongoing collaboration.

Why Exclusivity Matters

Under the new partnership, TON will be the only blockchain powering Telegram’s Mini Apps, effectively limiting blockchain functionality within the ecosystem to TON alone. Additionally, Toncoin (TON) will remain the sole cryptocurrency accepted for non-fiat payments across Telegram's services. These include:

• Telegram Stars: The platform's digital gifting and reward system.
• Telegram Premium: The subscription-based service for advanced features.
• Telegram Ads: The advertising platform designed to cater to businesses within Telegram.
• Telegram Gateway: A platform offering blockchain-powered alternatives to traditional SMS verification.

Telegram has also mandated that all payments to Mini App developers and channel owners for earned revenue, such as Telegram Stars or ad earnings, will exclusively utilize Toncoin.

TON Connect as the Sole Wallet Protocol

The exclusivity extends to the protocol level, with TON Connect becoming the exclusive protocol for linking blockchain wallets to Telegram Mini Apps. Previously, some Mini Apps had integrated functionality from other blockchains, but this move locks developers into using TON for all blockchain-enabled features.

According to a spokesperson from the TON Foundation, this ensures a unified, streamlined blockchain experience for both developers and users. “This move further reinforces Telegram’s ongoing commitment to integrating Toncoin within its ecosystem,” the representative said.

A Milestone for TON's Ecosystem

Telegram's endorsement of TON has played a critical role in its growth. From enabling pay-ins and payouts in Toncoin to powering Mini Apps and advertising tools, TON has become deeply integrated into Telegram's ecosystem. The new partnership strengthens this bond, with the TON Foundation acknowledging the transformative impact of Telegram's adoption of its features.

Manuel Stotz, the newly appointed president of the TON Foundation, emphasized the importance of this partnership for TON's roadmap. “After laying foundational groundwork over the last years, TON is now ready for explosive growth in 2025,” Stotz said. He highlighted Telegram's massive user base and its status as a leading global messaging platform as unparalleled distribution channels for TON.

Impact on Competing Blockchains

The move to exclude other blockchains is expected to reshape the Mini App ecosystem on Telegram. Some developers had previously launched apps on networks like Sui and Solana, but they will now need to transition fully to TON to continue offering blockchain functionality.

This decision comes amid competition in the blockchain space, exemplified by Hamster Kombat, a popular Telegram Mini App, announcing plans to build its own blockchain network just days before Telegram’s announcement. The Hamster DAO recently approved a partnership to develop a new blockchain, showcasing the growing ambition of alternative ecosystems. However, Telegram’s decision underscores TON’s dominance within its ecosystem.

The Future of Telegram and TON

This exclusivity deal marks a pivotal moment for both Telegram and TON. With over 950 million global users, Telegram is uniquely positioned to drive blockchain adoption through its Mini Apps and integrated services. By aligning its ecosystem entirely with TON, Telegram aims to provide a seamless, efficient, and user-friendly blockchain experience while reinforcing its commitment to decentralization and innovation.

For the TON Foundation, this partnership is a springboard for further growth and adoption. As 2025 approaches, the foundation is preparing for what it envisions as an "explosive" year, with Telegram’s continued support serving as a key driver of its ambitions.