- Telegram’s founder and CEO, Pavel Durov, has shared how “hundreds of millions of people” will become familiar with cryptocurrency technology through the messaging app this year.
- Durov announced that by the end of July, the messaging app will launch a Mini Apps store and an in-app browser with Web3 support.
- This initiative, as unveiled by Durov, aims to leverage the growing interest in Telegram Mini Apps (TMAs), lightweight, JavaScript-based services within the Telegram app.
Discover how Telegram plans to revolutionize cryptocurrency adoption with its new Mini Apps store and Web3-enabled tools.
Telegram’s Vision for the Cryptocurrency Ecosystem
With over 500 million users actively engaging in purchasing products, accessing services, and gaming via Mini Apps monthly, Telegram’s integration with the TON Blockchain marks a significant leap forward. This integration has notably boosted crypto-based gaming, particularly following the success of the Notcoin play-to-earn game.
The Rapid Growth of Blockchain-Based Games on Telegram
Earlier this month, Durov lauded another play-to-earn game, Hamster Kombat, for its swift growth. The game amassed 239 million users within three months, averaging 4-5 million daily users. This success underscores Durov’s vision of positioning Telegram at the heart of blockchain’s societal transformation, with 2024 anticipated as the year blockchain gains mass familiarity through widespread adoption.
Skepticism and Challenges of Play-to-Earn Trends
While the advancements are promising, there are voices of caution within the cryptocurrency community. A crypto enthusiast known as Woody Lightyear expressed skepticism on social media, suggesting that the play-to-earn trend might be another fleeting hype. Lightyear emphasized the need for teams or projects to strategically address and build around the current limitations of this budding culture.
Security Concerns and Telegram’s Proactive Measures
Amidst these developments, market experts believe that Durov’s plan will significant advance Web3 adoption by making the technology accessible to millions of Web2 users. However, the increasing popularity also attracts malicious actors targeting unsuspecting crypto novices. Recently, Web3 security platform Slow Mist reported a rise in phishing activities targeting TON Blockchain network users.
In response, Durov acknowledged these concerns, announcing that general user accounts will now display their registration month and country. Additionally, Mini Apps will have the capability to issue labels for channels, paving the way for a decentralized marketplace for third-party verification.
Conclusion
Telegram’s ambitious plans for the cryptocurrency space aim to usher in a new era of blockchain adoption and utilization. By integrating Web3 capabilities and enhancing user security, Telegram is not only fostering a deeper engagement with cryptocurrency but also aiming to become a central hub of innovation and transformation in the digital currency landscape.