Telegram, the popular messaging platform with 800 million monthly active users worldwide, is taking steps towards adopting an ecosystem strategy similar to WeChat's super app approach. This move involves decentralization and collaboration with significant players, including Tencent and the TON Foundation.
Telegram's Mini App Ecosystem
Telegram has been developing a platform that allows third-party developers to create mini apps for various purposes, from gaming to restaurant services. These mini apps can be launched directly within the Telegram app, potentially replacing traditional websites.
Partnership with TON Foundation and Tencent Cloud
The Open Network (TON) Foundation, which provides the blockchain infrastructure for Telegram, recently announced a partnership with Tencent Cloud. This collaboration aims to support TON's high compute and network bandwidth requirements, particularly for Telegram games built on TON. Tencent Cloud will offer cloud credits and product discounts through its Startup Program to projects on TON.
Tencent's Overseas Expansion
Tencent, the owner of WeChat, has been expanding its global presence as China's tech industry faces slower growth. This partnership with Telegram could prove beneficial for Tencent, especially if Telegram's mini-app marketplace gains popularity similar to WeChat's.
Learning from WeChat
Telegram's mini app model shares similarities with WeChat's, and developers from WeChat may consider building on TON. However, developers need to adapt to Telegram's international user base, and the platform's blockchain-focused programming languages present a learning curve.
Payment Functionality
WeChat's success was partly attributed to its integrated payment system, which encouraged users to conduct daily transactions through the app. In contrast, Telegram has integrated with multiple payment solutions, including self-custodial wallets developed using the TON blockchain, potentially opening up new transaction scenarios where centralized online payments are unavailable.
Conclusion
As Telegram and TON learn from WeChat's playbook, the partnership with Tencent could offer insights into expanding messenger apps' functionality for a variety of purposes. Payment integration and the potential of blockchain-based solutions may reshape how users interact with messaging platforms, particularly in regions with limited online payment options. The evolution of Telegram's mini app platform with a decentralized twist is a development worth watching.
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