Telegram Requires All Crypto Wallets to Use TON Connect, Raising Controversy
Date: 2025-02-07 Author: Oliver Abernathy Categories: BUSINESS
Cryptocurrency wallets running on the Telegram ecosystem are facing changes following the messenger’s exclusive partnership with The Open Network (TON) Foundation. Now, all third-party wallets must use TON Connect as their only connection protocol, foundation representatives told Cointelegraph.
The initiative is part of a collaboration between Telegram and the TON Foundation that makes TON the only supported blockchain for the messenger’s services. According to the requirements, Mini Apps using other blockchains must fully migrate to TON by February 21, including asset transfer, smart contract migration, and TON Connect integration.
The default Wallet in Telegram service, which is the messenger’s built-in wallet, will not be affected by the new rules, as it already works exclusively with TON and uses TON Connect to interact with decentralized applications.
Some wallets in Telegram have already implemented TON Connect before the exclusive partnership was announced. For example, Bitget Wallet Lite, a multi-chain wallet launched in October 2024, added TON Connect support on January 16 to improve the user and developer experience in the Telegram ecosystem. Bitget Wallet COO Alvin Kan noted that their wallet will continue to support Telegram and TON, simplifying access to blockchain services directly through the messenger.
TON Connect, launched in April 2022, is an open-source toolkit that acts as a universal standard for app authorization. It replaces traditional login and password methods, allowing users to log in through TON wallets.
According to Telegram's updated terms of service, the messenger will only support crypto wallet interfaces connected via TON Connect. The document also notes that tokens and NFTs on other blockchains, such as Ethereum and BNB, will not be allowed in the Telegram ecosystem.
Telegram's decision to limit Mini Apps to TON has drawn sharp criticism from the community. Many users doubt the messenger's commitment to decentralization and are concerned about whether TON will be able to withstand the increased load.
Despite this, Grindery remains compatible with TON and continues to develop a multi-chain ecosystem outside of Telegram, emphasizing the need for integration of various blockchains in the future.
