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Telegram made headlines by announcing its exclusive partnership with The Open Network (TON), limiting its Mini App ecosystem to TON and making Toncoin (TON) the sole token for in-app purchases. The move has generated strong reactions within the Web3 community, with critics arguing that Telegram’s strategy could have a detrimental impact on blockchain development and raise concerns about TON’s technical maturity and liquidity.
Ilya Abugov, director of Helika Ventures, expressed his surprise at the rapid implementation of Telegram’s TON-only policy. He noted that TON’s limited liquidity complicates the launch of native tokens, citing the recent partial delisting of Hamster Kombat (HMSTR) by Bybit as a result of poor liquidity. “Centralized exchanges have shown limited excitement for TON projects,” Abugov told Cointelegraph, highlighting the challenges developers may face on the TON blockchain.
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The decision to centralize Telegram’s Web3 efforts on TON also raises concerns about the network’s stability. Abugov and Garrison Yang, co-founder of Mirai Labs, pointed out that the TON network is still maturing, and an influx of user activity could result in performance issues. Yang further criticized Telegram’s “scorched earth” approach, which he believes may alienate developers and hinder Telegram’s potential in the crypto space.
Moreover, the Ice Open Network condemned Telegram’s strategy, claiming it contradicts Web3’s fundamental principles of decentralization. By forcing developers to exclusively adopt TON, Telegram risks locking users into a centralized ecosystem—something Web3 originally sought to avoid. “This action mirrors the tactics of Big Tech platforms, where users are locked into ecosystems without alternatives,” the Ice Open Network stated.
Also Read: Toncoin (TON) Becomes Telegram’s Exclusive Crypto for App Services in Groundbreaking Partnership
In light of the growing backlash, some have suggested that a “TON-first” policy, rather than a “TON-only” approach, might have allowed Telegram to preserve its open ecosystem while still supporting TON’s growth. The decision to prioritize TON exclusively, critics argue, may ultimately hinder its development and limit liquidity from other blockchain networks.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. The author’s views are personal and may not reflect the views of Chain Affairs. Before making any investment decisions, you should always conduct your own research. Chain Affairs is not responsible for any financial losses.
A lifelong learner with a thirst for knowledge, I am constantly seeking to understand the intricacies of the crypto world. Through my writing, I aim to share my insights and perspectives on the latest developments in the industry. I believe that crypto has the potential to create a more inclusive and equitable financial system, and I am committed to using my writing to promote its positive impact on the world.
