Telegram is kicking off 2025 with an important update that deepens its integration with the cryptocurrency ecosystem. like I mentioned By TechCrunch, the messaging service introduced NFT gifting capabilities along with third-party verification.
Telegram launches a new encryption feature
Traditionally, Telegram provides verification for public figures and organizations to verify their presence on the platform. The latest update expands this scope by enabling external entities – such as food quality regulators or educational bodies – to verify user accounts. This step aims to enhance confidence and mitigate the spread of misinformation.
As Telegram puts it, “This decentralized platform for additional verification will help prevent fraud and reduce misinformation – with a unique proactive solution that sets a new security standard for social media platforms.” Verified accounts will now have a distinctive logo next to their name, replacing the traditional blue check mark, thus distinguishing them more clearly.
Entities interested in obtaining verification must go through a rigorous application process. “People or organizations wishing to be certified will need to first undergo verification and complete an application to become eligible for the Verified Label,” Telegram explained in a blog post.
The platform’s Bot API makes it easy to manage verification statuses, allowing organizations to easily set or revoke verification. Profiles verified under third-party authorities will display the logo of the relevant organization, enhancing their credibility and ensuring users are able to reliably identify real accounts.
In an innovative combination of cryptocurrency and social sharing, Telegram also unveiled the ability to convert gifts into non-fungible tokens (NFTs). Users can purchase Telegram Stars either directly through the app or via the Fragment website by linking their TON crypto wallets. These stars can then be used to send personalized gifts featuring custom backgrounds and icons, which can later be minted as NFTs.
“Users will be able to trade NFTs on different platforms,” Telegram announced, emphasizing the interoperability of this new feature. To facilitate the blockchain transactions required to create an NFT, Telegram charges a fee to upgrade gifts to collectibles. This initiative not only enhances the user experience by adding a unique and tradable element to gifting, but also reinforces Telegram’s commitment to seamlessly integrating crypto functionality into its platform.
In addition to the core NFT verification and gifting features, the update introduces emoji interactions for service messages — such as welcoming new group members — and improved search filters designed specifically for private chats, group discussions, and channels.
Notably, Telegram has been proactive in leveraging cryptocurrencies for several platform functions, including generating income for creators and facilitating payments for games and mini-apps. The introduction of third-party verification and NFT gifting further cements Telegram’s role in the evolving cryptocurrency landscape.
Telegram’s native coin, Toncoin (TON), saw a 5% increase over the past 24 hours, although it saw a -22% decline over the past 29 days. The cryptocurrency maintains a market capitalization of $14.3 billion and a trading volume of $165 million (24 hours).
Featured image created with DALL.E, a chart from TradingView.com