Telegram Launches In-App Browser and Mini App Store Bringing Decentralized Web3 to Nearly 1B Users

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As a seasoned researcher with a keen interest in blockchain technology and its applications, I find Telegram’s recent moves to be nothing short of revolutionary. Having closely followed the crypto space for years now, I have witnessed firsthand the potential that decentralized technologies hold for reshaping the digital landscape.

Telegram’s well-known messaging service has recently introduced an internal web browser and a mini app marketplace for its users. This new browser supports TON Sites, which are websites hosted on the TON blockchain network rather than conventional servers. The unique thing about these sites is that their URLs end with “.ton” (such as http://foundation.ton). These websites leverage the security and decentralization features of the blockchain technology for their operation.

The freshly unveiled in-app web browser makes it effortless for users to seamlessly move between messaging, browsing, and gaming on Telegram without any disruptions. It boasts standard features including search capabilities, bookmarks, and the ability to manage multiple windows at once. Moreover, this browser’s compatibility with TON Sites introduces the idea of a decentralized internet to over 950 million users worldwide, potentially accelerating the acceptance of Web3 technologies.

In addition to the release of their latest browser, they’ve introduced the Mini App Store as well – a hub where all mini apps built on the Telegram platform are showcased together. This feature caters to the 500 million active monthly users who engage with these apps. Notably, last month saw the debut of a free-to-play game called OKX Racer, which was launched on this growing trend by crypto exchange OKX within this mini app ecosystem.

Telegram has added a ‘Apps’ section to its search feature, highlighting popular and trending mini-apps like Catizens and Notcoin. This makes it easier for users to access games and services, as well as find new ones. Furthermore, developers can now post video previews and screenshots of their mini-apps, offering users a more comprehensive understanding of the app’s functions.

As an analyst, I’m excited to share that we’ve introduced a new feature allowing users to gift Stars – our mini-app payment system’s units – to their contacts. This innovative functionality leads users straight to our Mini App Store, where they can discover apps that welcome Stars as payment.

The vast community on Telegram, composed primarily of crypto enthusiasts, has enthusiastically embraced the recent announcement. Numerous members expressed their belief that these types of updates will pave the way for widespread adoption of decentralized Web3 technology in the near future.

Rising Popularity of TON

The launch comes amid the rising popularity of Telegram-based games, many of which utilize the TON blockchain’s native token Toncoin (TON). This includes the Web3 tap-to-earn game Catizen and Hamster Kombat, which is preparing for its own token HMSTR airdrop. Other popular games leveraging the TON token include Yescoin, a swipe-to-earn game, and TapSwap, a Telegram clicker game.

Toncoin’s performance has been noteworthy, with its current trading price at around $6.8. Over the last week, it has climbed by 2%, and astonishingly, its value has skyrocketed over 470% within the past year. This significant growth underscores Toncoin’s robust market standing.

As a crypto investor, I’ve been closely watching the impressive growth of TON. In just five short months, it has nearly tripled its market cap, now standing at an impressive $17.1 billion. This digital asset has managed to climb up the ranks, currently placing 9th among the largest cryptocurrencies by market capitalization. It’s a testament to its potential and I can’t wait to see where it goes next.

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2024-08-01 14:12