Telegram has launched an in-app browser with decentralized website support, delivering Web3 to the popular messaging app’s nearly one billion users.
The new feature adds to the list of innovations driving Telegram’s popularity, solidifying its position at the helm of digital communications.
Telegram Unveils In-App Browser
Platform users can navigate between their messages and explore the wide array of content available on the internet. TON Sites supports decentralized websites hosted on The Open Network (TON). This is across mobile and native desktop applications, with users enjoying a user-friendly interface (UI) with easy navigation.
“Pages you open with the in-app browser can now be collapsed and reopened from the bottom bar, allowing you to freely move between your messages and websites, instant view articles, and mini-apps,” read the announcement.
This functionality came only days after Telegram founder Pavel Durov announced the messaging app’s expansive active monthly user base. With this July update, Telegram will revolutionize the browsing experience of its expansive user base, giving them immediate access to Web3 tools.
“This new feature will enable Telegram to function as a fully operational wallet. With its millions of active users, Telegram’s integration with TON Sites marks a significant step towards greater adoption of decentralized Web3 technologies,” said Paweł Łaskarzewski, CEO and Co-Founder of Nomad Fulcrum Hedge Fund.
Read more: Top 7 Telegram Tap-to-Earn Games to Play in 2024
Accordingly, they can explore the decentralized Web3 ecosystem right from the Telegram app. By embracing TON-hosted websites, Telegram is paving the way for a more decentralized and user-centric internet experience. It also opens up new possibilities for developers and users alike.
This development mirrors Telegram’s move to empower a new generation of internet pioneers, reshaping the future of the digital space. It also reflects the app’s commitment to pushing boundaries and redefining the way people engage with technology and each other in the digital age.
Last week, BeInCrypto reported how Telegram continues to leverage innovation for success. Booming hype around tap-to-earn crypto gaming on Telegram is among the catalysts and explains the massive user base. Popular tap-to-earn projects on Telegram include Notcoin, Hamster Kombat, and Catizen.
TON Blockchain Thrives on Web3 Innovation
Telegram’s self-custodial EVM smart wallet Grindery.io indicated some of its real-world use cases. It cited “monetization, streamlined ad payments in-app purchases, and traditional retail embracing crypto,” highlighting how innovation drives the ecosystem.
Similarly, Durov has often indicated how Telegram’s integrations attract capital into the ecosystem. On July 24, he highlighted that Catizen game earned $16 million from in-app purchases.
“Catizen introduced millions of people to blockchain because it uses TON-based smart contracts for its in-game rewards. Their team also built tools for other developers to launch their games on Telegram and TON easily. Well done, Catizen team,” he wrote.
Read more: Tap-to-Earn: What to Know About the Crypto GameFi Trend
The network’s strategy to attract users through value-adding Web3 integration explains its continued success. The amount of capital poured into the TON blockchain also reflects its success. DefiLlama data shows up to $764.47 million in Total Value Locked (TVL), a 5,558% surge since 2024 started.
Elsewhere, TonStat, the TON blockchain’s statistics aggregator, shows that the number of active TON wallets continues to increase. As of July 31, there were over 11.4 million active wallets on TON. It also records over 527,000 active daily and over 3.6 million monthly wallets.
Even in the face of massive success, Telegram has had its fair share of troubles. For starters, CertiK, a Web3 security firm, exposed a scam operation across three channels on the messaging app. These caused financial losses and damaged trust. The ecosystem also has a history with the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) over alleged securities violations.
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