Telegram kicked off 2025 with a significant update that deepens its integration with the crypto ecosystem. As reported by TechCrunch, the messaging service has introduced NFT gifting capabilities alongside third-party verification.
Telegram launches new crypto feature
Traditionally, Telegram allowed public figures and organizations to authenticate their presence on the platform. The latest update expands this scope by allowing third-party entities, such as food quality regulators or educational organizations, to verify user accounts. The move aims to build trust and mitigate the spread of misinformation.
In Telegram’s own words: “This decentralized additional verification platform will help prevent scams and reduce misinformation – with a unique proactive solution that sets a new security standard for social platforms. » Verified accounts will now feature a distinct logo next to their name, replacing the conventional blue checkmark, thus distinguishing them more clearly.
Entities seeking verification must undergo a rigorous application process. “Individuals or organizations wishing to be authenticated will first need to undergo verification and complete an application to become eligible to receive the verified mark,” Telegram detailed in a blog post.
The platform’s Bot API makes it easy to manage verification statuses, allowing organizations to easily assign or revoke verification. Profiles verified under these third-party authorities will display the logo of the respective organization, boosting their credibility and ensuring that users can reliably identify authentic accounts.
In an innovative fusion of crypto and social engagement, Telegram also unveiled the ability to convert gifts into non-fungible tokens (NFTs). Users can purchase Telegram Stars either directly through the app or through 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 then be minted as NFTs.
“Users could trade these NFTs across different platforms,” Telegram announced, emphasizing the interoperability of this new feature. To facilitate the blockchain transactions needed to create NFTs, Telegram charges fees for upgrading gifts into collectibles. This initiative not only improves user experience by adding a unique, redeemable element to gifts, but also reinforces Telegram’s commitment to seamlessly integrating crypto features into its platform.
Beyond the core NFT verification and gifting features, the update introduces emoji reactions for service messages, such as welcoming new group members, and improved search filters suitable for private chats , group chats and channels.
Telegram has notably been proactive in leveraging crypto for various features of the platform, including monetization for creators and facilitating payments for games and mini-apps. The introduction of third-party verification and NFT giveaways further strengthens Telegram’s role in the evolving crypto landscape.
Telegram’s native cryptocurrency Toncoin (TON) saw a 5% increase in the last 24 hours, although it saw a -22% decline in the last 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, chart from TradingView.com
