Telegram kicked off 2025 with a significant update that deepens its integration with the cryptocurrency ecosystem. How reported from TechCrunch, the messaging service has introduced the ability to give NFT gifts with third-party verification.
Telegram introduces a novel crypto feature
Traditionally, Telegram has provided verification to public figures and organizations to authenticate their presence on the platform. The latest update expands this scope by allowing third parties – such as food regulators and educational institutions – to verify user accounts. The move is aimed at strengthening trust and limiting the spread of disinformation.
In Telegram’s own words: “This decentralized secondary verification platform will help prevent fraud and reduce disinformation – with a unique, proactive solution that sets a new security standard for social platforms.” Verified accounts will now be marked with a prominent logo next to their name, replacing the conventional blue checkmark, making them more clearly distinguishable.
Entities interested in obtaining verification must undergo a tough application process. “Individuals or organizations wishing to be authenticated will first need to complete verification and complete an application to be eligible to receive the verified mark,” Telegram detailed in a blog post.
The platform’s Bot API makes it simple to manage verification statuses, allowing organizations to easily assign or revoke verifications. Verified profiles within these third-party bodies will bear the logo of the relevant organization, increasing their credibility and ensuring users can reliably identify legitimate accounts.
In an groundbreaking combination of cryptocurrencies and social engagement, Telegram also revealed the ability to exchange gifts for non-fungible tokens (NFTs). Users can purchase Telegram Stars 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 with custom backgrounds and icons, which can then be minted as NFTs.
“Users will be able to trade these NFTs across platforms,” Telegram announced, highlighting the interoperability of this novel feature. To facilitate the blockchain transactions required to create an NFT, Telegram imposes a fee for exchanging gifts for collectibles. This initiative not only improves the user experience by adding a unique, tradable element to gifts, but also reinforces Telegram’s commitment to seamlessly integrate crypto features into its platform.
In addition to basic NFT verification and gifting features, the update introduces emoji reactions to service messages – such as greeting novel group members – and improved search filters tailored to private chats, group discussions and channels.
It is worth noting that Telegram has actively used cryptocurrencies for various functionalities of the platform, including monetization for creators and facilitating payments for games and mini-apps. The introduction of third-party verification and NFT gifts further solidifies Telegram’s role in the evolving cryptocurrency landscape.
Telegram’s native cryptocurrency, Toncoin (TON), is up 5% in the last 24 hours, although it has seen a decline of 22% 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