Telegram Mini-Apps With USDT Will Revolutionize User Experience

Telegram introduces mini-apps with Tether USDT, enabling seamless crypto transactions for its 900 million users.

Telegram could revolutionize the user experience for its 900 million users through the introduction of mini-apps that incorporate Tether USDT stablecoins, seamlessly integrating cryptocurrency transactions into everyday activities without the typical complexities associated with crypto exchanges. This integration allows users to engage in peer-to-peer interactions, e-commerce, and access to paywalled content directly through Telegram’s interface, making it a first-time crypto encounter for many that goes completely unnoticed.

At the recent Token2049 conference in Dubai, TON representatives shared insights on how this new functionality supports not only users but also developers. 

By leveraging The Open Network’s (TON) layer-1 blockchain, developers are now able to create and launch diverse applications such as games and business services more effectively. The addition of Tether to the TON ecosystem simplifies transactions, enabling a thriving creator economy within Telegram without the barriers traditionally seen with different cryptocurrencies.

Telegram’s Strategy

One of the standout examples given by Hyun was the game “Catizen,” which shifted to TON from another blockchain. This move significantly boosted its user base, attracting 2 million users in just two months—a stark contrast to its previous pace of growth. This success story underscores the potential of Telegram’s platform to support rapid user growth and engagement through its new mini-apps feature.

Hyun highlighted that these mini-apps could be utilized directly within Telegram without the need for downloading separate applications, thus offering a clear advantage in user convenience and app accessibility. This strategy not only enhances user engagement but also positions Telegram as a global player, capable of competing with regional super apps like WeChat, Line, and KakaoTalk, which dominate in China, Japan, and South Korea, respectively.

By integrating Tether USDT, Telegram circumvents traditional payment gateways and avoids the payment restrictions imposed by major app stores, further enhancing its appeal and accessibility. The global reach of TON and the native integration of a stablecoin like USDT simplify transactions for users across different countries, eliminating the need for localized payment solutions.

The TON Foundation’s approach marks a return to the original vision of The Open Network, which faced setbacks in 2020 due to regulatory challenges from the United States Securities and Exchange Commission. Since then, the TON Foundation, established by a group of open-source developers in 2021, has been pivotal in driving forward the network’s capabilities and reach, setting a new benchmark for seamless crypto integration in mainstream applications.