Steve Yun Supports Telegram’s Exclusive Adoption of TON Blockchain Telegram’s decision to prioritize The Open Network (TON) as its sole blockchain for Web3 services was the right move , according to TON Foundation President Steve Yun . Speaking to Cointelegraph , Yun emphasized that this choice was not a limitation but a necessity , given TON’s ability to handle Telegram’s massive user base of 950 million . In January 2024 , Telegram announced that TON would be the exclusive network for its Mini Apps , sparking mixed reactions from the crypto community. However, Yun defended the move, arguing that blockchains without sharding lack the scalability for mass adoption and that alternative solutions often compromise security . Why Did Telegram Choose TON as Its Exclusive Blockchain? 1. Security & Scalability for 950 Million Users TON uses sharding , allowing it to handle Telegram’s large-scale transactions efficiently. Other blockchains may struggle with congestion and higher transaction costs . 2. Mass Adoption Requires High-Performance Blockchain Infrastructure Telegram aims to make Web3 services user-friendly . TON’s architecture ensures faster transaction speeds and lower fees . 3. Telegram’s Long-Term Vision for Blockchain Integration Originally developed by Telegram , TON aligns with its Web3 strategy . TON-based Mini Apps will offer decentralized services to millions of Telegram users. Will Telegram’s TON Exclusivity Impact the Broader Crypto Ecosystem? Bullish for TON: Telegram’s endorsement boosts TON’s credibility and adoption . More developers may build on TON , leading to a stronger ecosystem . Increased use cases for TON-based payments, gaming, and social apps . Concerns & Criticism: Some developers worry about Telegram limiting blockchain choices . Other Layer 1 blockchains could lose potential integration opportunities. Regulatory scrutiny may increase as TON’s influence grows. Despite making TON the default blockchain for Mini Apps , Telegram bots will continue to support multiple blockchains , ensuring some level of interoperability. Conclusion Steve Yun’s defense of Telegram’s exclusive TON adoption highlights its strategic importance for scalability, security, and mass adoption . While the move has sparked debate , it positions TON as a major player in the Web3 ecosystem , potentially accelerating crypto adoption among Telegram’s 950 million users . As TON’s integration deepens, its long-term success will depend on user adoption, developer support, and regulatory clarity . To learn more about the latest innovations shaping the crypto industry, explore our article on key blockchain developments and their impact on global adoption.
