Telegram Launches Integrated Browser to Support Decentralized Sites, Making Web3 Accessible to 950 Million Users
Telegram has launched an integrated browser that supports decentralized sites.
These sites, called ‘TON Sites,’ are now accessible on mobile and desktop, providing immediate access to Web3 for Telegram’s 950 million monthly users.
Fusion of Communication and News Consumption
Telegram’s CEO, Pavel Durov, announced that the new browser allows users to seamlessly switch between web browsing and messaging, merging communication and news consumption. This feature aims to create a smoother and more integrated user experience.
Launch of TON Sites and New Mini App Store
TON Sites enable Telegram users to launch a web server with their site and make it available on The Open Network (TON). This initiative is part of Telegram’s commitment to making Web3 more accessible and user-friendly to a wider audience.
In addition to the integrated browser, Telegram has launched its Mini App store, as promised before the end of July. This store allows users to access various applications directly from the Telegram platform. Furthermore, users can now send ‘Stars,’ units of the Mini App payment system, to their friends.
Popularity of Mini Apps
Over 500 million of Telegram’s 950 million users interact with Mini Apps each month. Among the most popular applications is Hamster Kombat, a crypto game that recently surpassed 300 million players. Hamster Kombat, where players tap a hamster to earn tokens and improve their virtual crypto exchange, became the third-fastest application to reach 150 million players.
Another notable application is Catizen, a web3 social entertainment platform that has accumulated 26 million players since its launch in March and generated $16 million through in-app purchases. A portion of the revenue, approximately $160,000, has been dedicated to rescuing stray cats.
Integration of Toncoin and Developments on the TON Blockchain
Hamster Kombat and Catizen utilize the native cryptocurrency of The Open Network, Toncoin. Over the past 12 months, the price of TON has increased by over 450% to nearly $7, reflecting the growing adoption of these applications on the TON platform.
The Open Network blockchain continues to evolve with significant developments. The TON core team recently launched the W5 smart wallet standard in collaboration with Tonkeeper, promising to provide gasless transactions. This feature aims to make the TON ecosystem more accessible, allowing new users to engage without the need to first acquire Toncoins, thus reducing entry barriers.
