Telegram Integrates Blockchain Technology, Starts Distributing NFT Prizes and Third-Party Account Verification Systems

Telegram's most popular instant messaging application starts in 2025 with major updates that integrate blockchain technology more deeply.

Jakarta - The most popular instant messaging application, Telegram, will start 2025 with a major update that integrates blockchain technology more deeply. The new feature includes the ability to provide prizes in the form of Non-Fungible Tokens (NFT) and an account verification system by a third party. In this update, Telegram is expanding its verification services. Previously, verification was only available to public figures and certain organizations. Now, third parties such as educational institutions or food quality regulators can provide verification marks to certain accounts. This system aims to increase trust, prevent fraud, and limit the spread of false information. Verified accounts will have a special logo as an identification mark that replaces the old blue tick icon Telegram explained that they are using decentralized platforms to support this system, which is considered safer and more transparent. The verification process itself involves registering and submitting documents by applicants, with status management carried out through the API Bot. The logo of the organization that provides verification will also appear on the verified account profile, adding to the credibility of the account in the eyes of the user. Another interesting feature that users can use is to send prizes in the form of NFT. Users can buy "Telegram Stars" through a Fragment application or site by connecting the Toncoin (TON) crypto wallet. This prize can be adjusted to the user's icon and background of choice, then converted into an NFT that can be traded on various platforms. Telegram charges the reward printing process to NFT, providing unique added value to the user experience Meanwhile, Toncoin (TON), which is Telegram's cryptocurrency, has shown a positive performance with an increase of 5% in the last 24 hours. However, over the past month, its value fell 22%. Currently, Toncoin has a market capitalization of around US$14.3 billion (IDR231.6 trillion) with a daily trading volume of 165 million US dollars (IDR2.7 trillion).