Communicating through strategic steps, Telegram aspires to transform the NFT environment through its user base extension alongside The Open Network (TON) blockchain technology to bring NFTs within reach of everyone.
In September 2024, CEO Pavel Durov reported that Telegram had 950 million monthly active users. Telegram’s addition of NFT capabilities seeks to merge digital collectible technology into regular communication practices.
A significant development in this initiative is the introduction of “Gifts,” animated images that users can personalize with messages to congratulate their contacts.
“Some gifts are in limited supply. Later this year, we’ll introduce the ability to convert these limited-edition gifts into TON-based NFTs.”
Launched in October 2024, these Gifts can now be converted into NFTs, allowing users to trade or auction them on NFT platforms. This feature enhances user engagement and provides a tangible entry point into the world of digital collectibles.
The Getgems marketplace, built on the TON blockchain, is at the forefront of this integration. A Getgems spokesperson highlighted the unique advantage of this approach, stating,
“While NFTs might have had a big moment in the past, they have never had the capacity for a seamless connection with mass users like Telegram has.”
The impact of this integration is evident in the numbers. According to Getgems data, Telegram-based NFTs have seen substantial activity, with Usernames generating a total volume of 72 million Toncoin (TON) and Anonymous Numbers accounting for 24 million TON.
With TON trading at around $5, these two NFT collections have a combined volume of approximately $480 million.
Further emphasizing the platform’s commitment to blockchain technology, Telegram has rolled out features such as third-party verification to combat scams and the ability to transform digital gifts into NFTs. These initiatives enhance user trust and promote the adoption of NFTs by providing practical and engaging applications within the messaging platform.
The integration of NFTs into Telegram’s ecosystem is not just about collectibles; it’s about utility. Features like NFT Usernames allow users to own unique digital identities that can be sold, while Anonymous Numbers add an extra layer of privacy and security.
The utility-based NFT solutions were created to produce accessibility for wider consumer bases by connecting blockchain complexity to familiar user interactions.
Telegram demonstrates its position as a vital force in delivering NFTs to mainstream adoption by merging its user-friendly products with fast TON blockchain operations.
By embedding NFT functionalities directly into its platform, Telegram enhances user engagement and sets a precedent for how digital collectibles can be integrated into daily communication tools.
