Telegram is enhancing its monetization capabilities by enabling content creators to share and monetize their work directly on its platform using a new digital currency called Stars.
Introduced last month, Stars were initially used to purchase digital goods from bots and apps within the app. This functionality has now expanded, allowing creators to post content that users can access through Stars payments.
Flexible Cryptocurrency Conversions for Channel Owners
Furthermore, Telegram is integrating more flexibility into the ecosystem by allowing channel owners to convert their Stars into Toncoin, a cryptocurrency that operates on The Open Network (TON) blockchain. This conversion can be carried out through the Fragment platform, which also supports trading Toncoin and transferring funds to bank accounts. This platform has gained attention for hosting auctions of usernames using TON blockchain technology.
Channel owners are not limited to cryptocurrency conversions; they also have the option to use Stars for obtaining discounts on promotional activities for their channels. This dual-use of Stars enhances their utility as both a channel growth tool and a medium of exchange within the Telegram ecosystem.
New Mini App Bar & Improved Discovery Tools
Additionally, Telegram’s update introduced a Mini App bar at the interface’s bottom, allowing users to access and interact with mini-apps quickly without needing to reload them.
The platform has also improved how users discover and interact with stories. Users can now tap hashtags or location tags in stories to view all related public content, thereby improving navigation and engagement with community-driven content.
This suite of updates aligns with Telegram’s strategic goal of reaching one billion active users and achieving profitability. By integrating these business-centric features, Telegram is positioning itself as a robust platform for both individual content creators and small businesses, aiming to provide a compelling alternative to competitors like WhatsApp.
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