In a world where technology and finance are rapidly merging, messaging apps are evolving beyond mere communication tools. Telegram’s blockchain, now known as The Open Network (TON), exemplifies how a platform with billions of users can become the epicenter of the Web3 ecosystem. At the heart of this evolution are robust technology and a vibrant community that are collectively shaping a new digital landscape.

Originally conceived as the Telegram Open Network (TON), the project was severely blocked by the SEC. However, it didn’t disappear — it was reborn as TON, thanks to the efforts of the decentralized community. This is an example of an idea that seemed irrevocably suppressed by external circumstances growing into something more: an ecosystem with ambitions to become the basis for decentralized applications, digital identity, and crypto payments in Telegram.

The question today is how TON can launch a true Web3 revolution with its integration into Telegram. Not just in theory, but in practice, with convenient wallets, fast transactions, and built-in mini-apps. This article aims to demonstrate why TON already plays a pivotal role in shaping the digital future and what developments in this regard await us in 2025 and beyond.

What are Toncoin and The Open Network?

Toncoin is not just another altcoin. You could say it is the heart of an ambitious project that began in 2018 as the Telegram Open Network. At that time, the Telegram team developed its own Layer-1 blockchain with high transaction speeds and low fees. However, in 2020, the SEC considered the network’s tokens as unregistered securities, and Telegram had to abandon the project. However, the story did not end there—on the contrary, it was just beginning.

A community of developers and enthusiasts relaunched the network under a new name, The Open Network. That’s when Toncoin (formerly Gram) was born and became the main token of the new ecosystem.

The Open Network is a decentralized blockchain capable of processing over 100,000 transactions per second (TPS). This makes it one of the fastest solutions on the market. At the same time, commissions on the network remain at thousandths of a dollar.

The combination of the blockchain’s technical power and support from a messaging app with billions of users makes Toncoin a unique phenomenon in the crypto market.

The Open Network uses a governance systеm through a decentralized autonomous organization (DAO) called Society DAO. The TON Foundation, a non-profit organization that supports developers, promotes standards, and considers strategic development, handles the coordination and development of the project.

Technical Features of TON

The network’s technical foundation is designed for widespread use, not in the distant future, but right now. TON is based on the Proof-of-Stake consensus mechanism, whereby any user can become a nominator by delegating their tokens to validators, thereby participating in the network’s security.

One of the key solutions to ensure TON’s scalability is sharding, which involves dividing the network into many parallel chains. TON is not just a blockchain; it is a “blockchain of blockchains,” where each part of the multi-blockchain systеm operates independently yet synchronously.

The TON Virtual Machine (TVM) is at the heart of developing decentralized applications on the network. It is a special runtime environment adapted for high loads and smart contract implementations. Thanks to the TVM, developers can create complex, secure, and scalable solutions, ranging from DeFi to gaming and social projects.

Blockchain’s technical capabilities are not limited to speed and contracts. Other components inсlude:

• TON Storage is a decentralized storage systеm that allows files to be stored and distributed independently of centralized servers.
• TON Proxy provides anonymity and secure network access, essentially turning TON into a crypto-VPN.
• TON DNS links easy-to-read domain names to wallets and DApps, simplifying navigation in the ecosystem.

TON integration with Telegram

The main draw and competitive advantage of The Open Network is not only its technology but also its access to the largest audience. In a world where user engagement accounts for half of a project’s success, the Telegram integration has been a game changer for TON. The messenger, which has over 1 billion users, has become a platform where the Web3 ecosystem comes directly to your chat room.

It all starts with the TON Wallet, a built-in wallet available on Telegram via the @wallet bot. With it, you can instantly send and receive Toncoin, participate in staking and DeFi programs, and vote in DAO.

Another revolutionary feature is Telegram Mini Apps. These decentralized applications are built right into the messenger and range from NFT games to financial platforms. Users can launch DApps in two clicks without installing third-party software. Projects like Notcoin and Hamster Kombat, which are tap-to-play apps, have involved more than 30 million people. Although they have different fates, they have proven that Web3 on Telegram can be massive and exciting. USDT-TON support, launched in partnership with Tether, also operates within the app, adding stability and convenience to Telegram’s cryptocurrency transactions. Telegram’s role cannot be overstated. The platform actively promotes TON through native notifications, recommendations, built-in bots, and viral mechanics. Most importantly, all of this happens in an environment that is familiar to users, eliminating the need to install MetaMask or connect to third-party blockchains. Thus, TON — and with it, Web3 — comes to your messenger feed alongside memes, videos, and friends.

TON Ecosystem: DeFi, NFTs, and Apps

TON DeFi. The platform is developing protocols such as STON.fi, which offers a decentralized token exchange with instant transaction confirmation and low fees. Another important player is KTON, a liquid staking solution. These features make DeFi accessible even to those who have not encountered such tools before.

NFT TON. Telegram is actively supporting the integration of NFTs through its Fragment platform, where personalized usernames and collectible tokens are sold.

The gaming segment on the blockchain is developing especially rapidly. This is all thanks to Telegram Mini Apps, which can be played directly in chats. Innovations like Notcoin have become sensations; tens of millions of users have clicked, farmed, and staked without realizing they were participating in decentralized applications. For example, entire gaming studios like Pentachora are developing on TON and releasing products with native Toncoin integration.

TON’s advantages for the Web3 revolution

Amidst the many blockchains fighting for a place in the sun, The Open Network (TON) stands out for its technology and philosophy: to make the Web3 ecosystem accessible to everyone. This is not just a slogan; behind TON are real mechanisms that make Web3 accessible and convenient.

• The most obvious advantage is Telegram integration. For millions of users worldwide, Telegram is a daily communication tool. Now, it has become an entry point to the decentralized internet. There is no need to install separate wallets, understand seed phrases, or undergo KYC. TON Wallet is built right into the messenger, and Telegram Mini Apps allow you to use any decentralized application.
• Another factor is TON’s scalability. Thanks to its multi-sharding architecture and unique load distribution mechanism, the network can process over 100,000 transactions per second.
• Next are the low fees. Crypto payments in Telegram are no longer just a vision of the future; they are a working reality available to anyone who uses the messenger.
• One of the most promising topics is digital identity. TON allows users to manage their digital assets, accounts, and personal data in one place. This opens the way to creating Web3 profiles where users have complete control over their identity and assets.
• Finally, there is active support for developers. The TON Foundation launches grant programs, hackathons, and educational initiatives. Tools for creating Telegram Mini Apps, software development kits (SDKs) for working with smart contracts, and ready-made application programming interfaces (APIs) stimulate the emergence of new projects, ranging from decentralized finance (DeFi) to games and marketplaces.

Challenges and risks of TON

• One of the key factors is regulatory risk. As with most cryptocurrency projects, unpredictable legislation poses a serious threat. A project may face pressure from authorities, particularly in countries with strict cryptocurrency policies. The SEC’s 2020 ban on the Telegram Open Network is an important reminder of how unpredictable the regulatory environment can be.
• The second aspect is dependence on Telegram. Many users still perceive the project as a “subsidiary” of Telegram. This connection makes TON vulnerable; any political or legal issues affecting the messenger directly impact the ecosystem’s perception and stability. A notable example occurred when Pavel Durov was arrested in 2024, causing a 15% drop in the exchange rate (although this was later refuted).
• It is also worth noting the increase in fraud. Toncoin’s popularity and the platform’s virality have led to an increase in fake projects and schemes with referral links promising “quick money.”
• Competition is another challenge. The network is developing in a tough, progressive, competitive environment. Ethereum, Solana, Aptos, and other major blockchains already have robust ecosystems, strong communities, and extensive networks of partnerships.

The Future of TON and Toncoin in 2025

At the time of writing, Toncoin ranks 20th by market capitalization among all cryptocurrencies, with an estimated value of approximately $7.91 billion. This figure reflects sustained interest in the project. Toncoin is currently traded on major cryptocurrency exchanges such as Binance, OKX, and Bybit, providing easy access to a broad investor base. This strengthens the project’s position in the global market and contributes to the growth of the token’s liquidity.

The Open Network ecosystem is expected to grow in the coming years, particularly with regard to DeFi protocols, NFTs, and Telegram Mini Apps. Partnerships with traditional financial institutions, such as B2BINPAY and Tether, contribute to the expansion of crypto payment usage on Telegram. Additionally, the TON team has ambitious goals: they aim to incorporate 30% of Telegram users — no less than 500 million people — into the Web3 ecosystem by 2028.

Given these factors, as well as ongoing investment from venture funds such as Sequoia Capital and CoinFund, which have invested over $400 million in the project, Toncoin has the potential to become one of the top 10 cryptocurrencies by market capitalization in the coming years.

Conclusion

The Open Network is more than just another blockchain; it is a real Web3 infrastructure integrated into everyday digital life. TON uses the capabilities of the Telegram blockchain to turn the messenger, which has a billion-strong audience, into a portal to the decentralized internet.

Anyone interested in blockchain innovations should follow TON’s development. As with any cryptocurrency project, investing in Toncoin should be done wisely — you can’t do without information, analysis, and common sense.

Thank you for your attention. Invest safely and profitably!

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FAQ

What is Toncoin?

Toncoin is the native cryptocurrency of The Open Network. It is used to pay for transactions, participate in staking, and run decentralized applications.

How is TON related to Telegram?

The project originated as Telegram Open Network (TON). After facing regulatory pressure, the project was transferred to the community and relaunched. Meanwhile, Telegram actively supports the project by integrating it into its messenger ecosystem.

What applications work on TON?

The network supports Telegram Mini Apps, DeFi protocols, NFT marketplaces, and games. Popular ones inсlude STON.fi, Fragment, and Notcoin, as well as the TON Wallet and Tonkeeper crypto wallets.

Is TON Wallet safe to use?

TON offers a high level of security, and using TON Proxy and TON DNS provides additional privacy and data protection.

What are the prospects for TON in 2025?

Experts predict the rapid development of the Web3 ecosystem and growth in the number of users, as well as the possible entry of Toncoin into the top 10 cryptocurrencies by market capitalization.