Telegram CEO Pavel Durov has officially unveiled "Telegram Stars," an in-app token designed to simplify the purchase of digital goods and services. This strategic launch expands Telegram’s functionality beyond a secure messaging service into a broader digital marketplace.
Telegram Stars enables seamless transactions within the app’s ecosystem. Users can acquire these tokens via in-app purchase systems available on platforms such as Apple and Google, or through Telegram’s own PremiumBot.
How Telegram Stars Work
Telegram Stars serve as a universal currency for digital purchases. Users can spend them on various virtual products, including e-books, online courses, and in-game items for Telegram-based games.
The system complies with Apple and Google’s policies regarding digital sales, ensuring smooth integration with major mobile app marketplaces. More importantly, Telegram plans to allow developers to convert Stars into Toncoin (TON), increasing the utility and flexibility of the token for creators.
Boosting Mini Apps and Developer Engagement
Telegram Stars are set to significantly enhance the visibility and usability of mini-apps—lightweight applications that operate within Telegram without requiring installation. Popular examples include games like Notcoin.
Developers can use Stars to promote their applications within Telegram, and users can spend Stars within these apps for various features and transactions. This creates a circular economy that benefits both users and developers.
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Pavel Durov highlighted one major advantage for developers:
“Apple and Google take a 30% commission when users buy Stars from them, but Telegram will subsidize ads purchased with Telegram Stars. So if developers reinvest Stars in promoting their app, the overall commission will be nearly 0%.”
This approach reduces operational costs for developers and encourages more innovation within the Telegram ecosystem.
Impact on the Crypto Market and Notcoin
The introduction of Telegram Stars has already influenced the cryptocurrency market, particularly tokens associated with Telegram’s ecosystem. Notcoin (NOT), for example, has seen positive momentum, recently breaking into the top 60 cryptocurrencies by market cap and even briefly entering the top 50.
Notcoin’s rapid growth is supported by Durov’s personal endorsement and strategic vision. He revealed that his own holdings in Notcoin appreciated significantly over a short period, reflecting strong confidence in the token’s long-term potential.
Durov has described Notcoin as “the largest cryptocurrency community in the history of social media,” underscoring the advantages of Telegram’s vast user base and scalability for crypto-based applications.
The Future of Telegram as a Crypto Platform
With the rollout of Telegram Stars and the growing success of tokens like Notcoin, Telegram is positioning itself as a major platform for cryptocurrency and digital service solutions. The integration of in-app tokens, combined with minimal commission incentives for developers, sets the stage for further expansion.
This evolution highlights how messaging platforms can transform into multi-functional ecosystems, supporting everything from communications to commerce and crypto.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Telegram Stars?
Telegram Stars are an in-app token used to purchase digital goods and services within Telegram. They can be bought via app stores or through PremiumBot and spent on items like e-books, courses, and game assets.
How can developers benefit from Telegram Stars?
Developers can use Stars to promote their mini-apps and digital products. When Stars are reinvested in advertising within Telegram, commission fees are greatly reduced, improving overall profitability.
Can Telegram Stars be converted to cryptocurrency?
Yes, Telegram plans to allow developers to convert Stars into Toncoin (TON), providing more flexibility and liquidity for earnings.
What is the relationship between Telegram Stars and Notcoin?
Notcoin is one of the prominent mini-apps operating within Telegram that supports transactions using Stars. The growth of Notcoin has been positively influenced by the introduction and use of Telegram Stars.
Are Telegram Stars available on both iOS and Android?
Yes, Telegram Stars can be purchased through both Apple App Store and Google Play Store, complying with each platform’s digital goods policies.
How do Telegram Stars affect user experience?
Users benefit from a streamlined process for buying digital items and supporting mini-apps without leaving Telegram, creating a more integrated and efficient experience.