Telegram, the popular messaging platform with over 900 million monthly active users, has announced a strategic plan to grow its user base with the launch of a Mini-App store and an in-app browser with built-in Web3 support.
This move by Telegram founder Pavel Durov signifies the company’s ambition to transform the platform into a more versatile ecosystem, allowing users to access a wider range of services and functionalities directly within the app.
Durov also announced measures to combat scams that have emerged alongside the platform’s growing popularity. Public-facing user accounts will now display the month and country of registration, providing users with additional information to assess the legitimacy of accounts they encounter.
Additionally, Mini-Apps will be granted the ability to label channels, introducing a potential layer of decentralized, third-party verification within the Telegram ecosystem.
The announcement comes amidst the viral success of several Telegram Mini-App games, particularly Hamster Kombat and Notcoin. According to Durov, Hamster Kombat garnered a staggering 239 million users within a mere 81 days.
This highlights the burgeoning potential of blockchain games to not only entertain but also supplement player income, though it’s important to note that Hamster Kombat’s in-game currency is not yet a tradable digital asset. The developers plan to introduce tradable tokens for the game later in 2024.
The immense popularity of these games has unfortunately attracted malicious actors. Scammers are employing phishing attacks, preying on unsuspecting users with promises of free airdrops of fake Hamster tokens. Telegram urges users to exercise caution and avoid engaging with such schemes.
Capitalizing on the momentum of Mini-App games, Notcoin and Helika Gaming have announced a dedicated gaming accelerator program. This program, backed by $50 million in seed capital from Helika, aims to facilitate the development of new games specifically designed for the Telegram platform. Applications for the program are currently being accepted.
Telegram’s foray into Mini-Apps and Web3 integration marks a significant step towards a more feature-rich and versatile platform. The success of Mini-App games like Hamster Kombat underscores the potential of Telegram as a breeding ground for innovative gaming experiences. However, users must remain vigilant against scams that may attempt to exploit the current excitement surrounding this new frontier.
Also Read: Hamster Kombat Origin Story and Second Airdrop Update
