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Telegram is diving deeper down the rabbit hole by offering new features aimed at boosting Web3 integration.
In their latest update, Telegram introduced a comprehensive Mini-App store and an in-app browser to further engage users, encouraging them to spend more time on the app.
Telegram Browser
Telegram's in-app browser integrates sites with URLs ending in".ton" which are hosted on the TON blockchain rather than traditional servers.
This brings the concept of a decentralized web to Telegram’s 950 million users globally and allows them to benefit from the blockchain’s security and decentralization. This is something more users should pay attention to, especially after the outage caused by Crowdstrike.
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In addition, the browser allows you to open links or Mini-Apps without ever leaving the app. Pages can be minimized and reopened from the bottom bar, giving a smooth user experience. Pages can also be bookmarked and revisited later if users wish to continue reading.
Mini-Apps
Currently, over 500 million users engage with Telegram's Mini-Apps each month. With a user base of 950 million, approximately one in two Telegram users interact with these Mini-App. The new 'Apps' tab enhances user experience by displaying popular Mini-App, allowing users to easily find and explore their favorite apps.
User experience
Starting any Mini-App on Telegram is straightforward. Users simply click "Open App" to begin playing—no external download is required. Although these games are relatively simple, such as "Tap to Earn," they can be extremely addictive.
Developers can make use of TON SDK to introduce tokens to users, bringing more users to the TON blockchain.
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Users can gain points or levels in most games just with a few clicks, providing them with instant gratification, and making them more likely to come back for more in the future.
Mini-Apps are also designed for casual gamers with their simple mechanics, appealing to a wider range of audience. Lastly, there is a social element aspect to these Mini-App as users can invite their friends on Telegram and compare their scores against each other.
Although early days, it will be interesting to see how Mini-Apps will evolve. Developers will likely have to create more innovative concepts or unique elements to keep users engaged.
Market Reaction
TON didn't see much price action when the announcement was made, with its price hovering at $6.70 at the time of writing. As with most roadmaps, these developments are usually announced ahead of time and were likely factored into the price.
