Overview of Telegram and Ton Network
Telegram - A Globally Popular Messaging App
Starting as a high-security social messaging platform, Telegram has rapidly attracted a massive global user base. Currently, Telegram boasts over 2.5 billion registered accounts and 900 million monthly active users (MAU), growing at an average annual rate of 40% (February 2024). By late 2023, Telegram ranked among the top 6 most downloaded and widely used apps globally.
Telegram's Growth Metrics
- Funding: Raised over $2.3 billion through debt issuance since 2021 (via Financial Times).
- Valuation: Estimated at $30+ billion, with plans for an IPO in Q3 2026.
- Revenue: Primarily from Telegram Premium subscriptions, generating **~$100 million in Q1 2024** (5 million subscribers at $5/month).
👉 Explore Telegram's growth strategies
The Evolution of Ton Network
The Open Network (TON) is a Layer 1 blockchain ecosystem using PoS consensus, originally developed by Telegram in late 2017. Despite early challenges, Ton Network has maintained a close relationship with Telegram, with founder Pavel Durov publicly endorsing its integration.
Key Milestones:
- 2017: Launched as Telegram Open Network.
- 2020: Rebranded as The Open Network after regulatory hurdles.
- 2024: Deepened integration with Telegram for Web3 adoption.
Ton's Web3 Ecosystem on Telegram
Telegram’s 900 million MAU provides a fertile ground for Ton Network to embed Web3 infrastructure. The collaboration includes:
Ton's Role in Telegram’s Ecosystem
Revenue Streams:
- Telegram Advertising: $TON tokens serve as payment (estimated **$2–25 million/month** in ad revenue).
- Business Accounts: Monetization tools for creators.
Financial Layer:
- Facilitates value exchange via Telegram Wallet and Mini Apps.
Telegram Wallet
- Features: Simplified Web3 onboarding (supports only Ton Network assets).
Versions:
- Custodial: Managed by Telegram.
- Non-Custodial: User-controlled (e.g., Tonkeeper integration).
Telegram Mini Apps (TMAs)
TMAs are lightweight applications within Telegram’s Apps Centre, focusing on:
- DeFi Tools: Trading bots (e.g., Unibot, Banana Gun).
- SocialFi: Community-driven platforms.
- Gaming: Play-to-earn integrations.
- NFT Marketplaces.
👉 Discover top TMAs for Web3
Case Study: Trading Bots
- Volume: Peaked at $20 million/day (July 2023).
- Risks: Smart contract vulnerabilities.
Telegram: Web3’s Answer to WeChat
WeChat’s success as a super app (1.3 billion users) stems from its mini-programs ecosystem (e.g., payments, shopping). Telegram mirrors this by combining:
- Telegram Wallet (like WeChat Pay).
- TMAs (akin to WeChat Mini Programs).
- Ton Network as the financial backbone.
Growth Targets
2028 Goal:
- Telegram: 1.7 billion MAU.
- Ton Network: 500 million MAU (30% of Telegram’s base).
FAQs
1. How does Ton Network benefit Telegram users?
Ton enables seamless crypto transactions within Telegram, reducing friction for Web3 adoption.
2. What are the risks of using Telegram Trading Bots?
Users face smart contract risks and loss of fund control if bots are compromised.
3. Will Telegram replace WeChat?
While aiming to be a Web3 super app, Telegram must scale TMAs and payment infrastructure to match WeChat’s dominance.
Conclusion
Telegram and Ton Network are reshaping social-fi by merging messaging with Web3 utilities. With plans to IPO by 2026, Telegram’s ambition extends beyond crypto—positioning itself as a global super app competitor.