- Telegram reaches 950 million active users, aiming for 1 billion this year
- New app store and web3-supporting in-app browser launching soon
- Focus on blockchain, cryptocurrency, and ad revenue sharing with TON blockchain
Telegram, the popular messaging app, is making headlines again with its impressive growth and innovative plans. As of now, the platform boasts 950 million active users, and its founder, Pavel Durov, has ambitious plans to hit the 1 billion user mark by the end of this year. With these milestones, Telegram continues to assert its influence in the messaging app market, drawing users with its unique features and robust security.
In addition to expanding its user base, Telegram is set to introduce new features that promise to enhance user experience and functionality. Among these upcoming features are an app store and an in-app browser that supports web3 pages. These advancements align with Telegram’s commitment to integrating cutting-edge technology into its platform, ensuring that it stays ahead of the curve.
Messaging App Telegram: Reaching New Heights
In March, Telegram celebrated a significant achievement by crossing the 900 million user threshold. At that time, Durov expressed confidence in the platform’s trajectory, stating in an interview with the Financial Times that the company aims to be profitable next year. This goal underscores Telegram’s strategic initiatives to not only grow its user base but also establish a sustainable financial model.
Web3 Integration and Blockchain Initiatives
Telegram has been at the forefront of adopting web3 technology, reflecting its long-standing support for cryptocurrency and blockchain initiatives. Despite initial setbacks, such as the failure of its initial coin offering in 2018, the company has made significant strides in this space. In December 2022, Telegram began auctioning usernames on the TON blockchain, marking a notable step in its blockchain journey.
To further bolster its blockchain endeavors, Telegram has been focusing on helping developers create mini-apps and games that utilize cryptocurrency for transactions. This year, the platform introduced a revenue-sharing model, distributing ad revenue to channel owners in the form of toncoin, a token on the TON blockchain. Earlier this month, Telegram enabled channel owners to convert stars to toncoin, which can be used to purchase ads at discounted rates or trade cryptocurrencies.
Addressing Security Concerns
While Telegram’s growth and innovation are commendable, the platform has faced challenges, particularly related to scams and fraudulent activities. Since November 2023, there has been a notable increase in scams targeting Telegram users, with scammers employing various schemes to steal toncoins. A report from Kaspersky highlighted these issues, prompting Durov to address the matter directly.
In a recent message on his channel, Durov outlined the company’s plans to combat these scams. Telegram will soon display the month of registration and principal country for public accounts, similar to Instagram’s approach. Additionally, the platform will allow organizations to use mini-apps to issue labels for channels, creating a decentralized marketplace for third-party verification. These measures aim to enhance transparency and security for users, mitigating the risk of scams.
Telegram’s journey is a testament to its commitment to growth and innovation. With 950 million active users and a goal to reach 1 billion by the year’s end, the platform is ready for continued success. The introduction of an app store and an in-app browser supporting web3 pages, coupled with its focus on blockchain and cryptocurrency, showcases Telegram’s forward-thinking approach.
Despite facing challenges with scams, Telegram’s proactive measures to enhance security demonstrate its dedication to user safety. As Telegram evolves, it remains a significant player in the messaging app sector, continually pushing the boundaries of what is possible in digital communication.
