Telegram’s 2025 Crypto Integration: A Comprehensive Update
Telegram has kickstarted 2025 by unveiling a groundbreaking update that significantly enhances its interaction with the cryptocurrency ecosystem. This development, covered by TechCrunch, introduces NFT gifting capabilities and a novel third-party verification system, reinforcing Telegram’s commitment to innovation and security.
Telegram’s Innovative Crypto Features
Traditionally known for verifying public figures and organizations, Telegram has expanded its verification services to include third-party entities like food quality regulators and educational institutions. This strategic enhancement aims to strengthen user trust and tackle the pervasive issue of misinformation.
According to Telegram, “This decentralized platform for additional verification will help prevent scams and reduce misinformation — with a unique proactive solution that sets a new safety standard for social platforms.” The new feature replaces the traditional blue checkmark with a distinctive logo next to verified account names, ensuring clearer identification.
Verification Process and Implementation
Organizations seeking verification must navigate a rigorous application process. Telegram outlines in a blog post that individuals or entities aspiring to be authenticated must first complete this verification to be eligible for the verified mark. The Bot API on the platform simplifies the management of verification statuses, enabling organizations to effortlessly assign or revoke verification. Verified profiles under third-party authorities will display the associated organization’s logo, enhancing credibility and allowing users to easily recognize legitimate accounts.
Integrating NFTs with Social Engagement
In a pioneering blend of cryptocurrency and social interaction, Telegram has introduced the option to transform gifts into Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs). Users can acquire Telegram Stars through the app or the Fragment site by linking their TON crypto wallets. These Stars can be utilized to send personalized gifts with custom backgrounds and icons, which can then be minted as NFTs.
Telegram emphasizes the interoperability of this new feature, stating, “Users would be able to trade these NFTs on different platforms.” A fee is imposed for upgrading gifts to collectibles to facilitate the blockchain transactions necessary for NFT creation. This initiative not only enriches the user experience by adding a unique, tradable aspect to gifting but also underscores Telegram’s dedication to seamlessly integrating crypto functionalities into its platform.
Additional Updates and Features
Beyond verification and NFT gifting, the latest update introduces emoji reactions for service messages, such as welcoming new group members, and improved search filters designed for private chats, group discussions, and channels. These enhancements further streamline user interaction and engagement.
Telegram’s Role in the Crypto Space
Proactively leveraging cryptocurrency for various platform functionalities, Telegram continues to pave the way for monetization opportunities for creators and facilitates payments for games and mini-applications. The introduction of third-party verification and NFT gifting solidifies Telegram’s influential role in the dynamic crypto landscape.
Toncoin Performance and Market Impact
Telegram’s native cryptocurrency, Toncoin (TON), has experienced a 5% increase over the past 24 hours, despite a -22% decline over the past month. Toncoin maintains a robust market capitalization of $14.3 billion and a 24-hour trading volume of $165 million, reflecting its continued relevance and potential within the crypto market.
With these advancements, Telegram is poised to redefine social platform standards by intertwining trust, innovation, and digital asset integration, setting a benchmark for others in the industry to follow.
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