Telegram's integrated crypto wallet is set to expand its offerings significantly in the coming months. The upcoming update will introduce support for at least 50 new cryptocurrencies and a highly anticipated yield-earning feature, allowing users to generate returns on assets like Tether (USDT).
The wallet, a third-party mini-app within the Telegram messaging platform, is developed under The Open Platform (TOP), the primary startup incubator in The Open Network (TON) ecosystem. This major upgrade was officially announced by TOP on March 13.
Expanded Token Support
The new version of the wallet will dramatically broaden its horizons beyond the TON ecosystem. A spokesperson confirmed to Cointelegraph that the update will include support for major cryptocurrencies like Ethereum (ETH) and Ripple (XRP), as well as popular meme coins such as Dogecoin (DOGE) and Pepe (PEPE).
The complete list of tokens is still being finalized, but the initial rollout is confirmed to include at least 50 different assets. The expansion will be phased in over the next two months.
Initial Limitations: In-App Trading Only
At launch, the new trading functionality for these non-TON tokens will have a key limitation. Users will be able to buy, sell, and hold these assets entirely within the app, but they will not be able to deposit or withdraw them on-chain to external wallets or exchanges.
“For this stage of the rollout, non-TON tokens are for in-app trading only,” the wallet's spokesperson stated. While the core focus remains on the TON ecosystem with full functionality for native tokens, this new feature is a direct response to user demand for more diverse portfolio options.
Introducing the Yield Feature
Perhaps the most significant addition is the new yield program. The wallet's upcoming "Earn" section will allow users to put their idle assets to work and generate passive income.
The program will launch first with TON, offering "flexible earnings" on deposits with a minimum requirement of just 0.1 TON. According to the spokesperson, “The yield is sourced from TON staking.”
The plan is to quickly expand this yield service to include a wider range of altcoins and stablecoins, with USDT specifically mentioned as a forthcoming option. This provides a compelling reason for users to hold assets within the Telegram Wallet beyond simple convenience.
For those looking to diversify their yield-generating strategies across different platforms, it's worth exploring more strategies that can maximize returns. This move aligns with a broader trend of making decentralized finance (DeFi) more accessible to a mass audience directly through widely-used applications like Telegram.
Why This Matters for Crypto Adoption
Integrating these features directly into Telegram, a messaging app with hundreds of millions of active users, is a major step forward for crypto adoption. It significantly lowers the barrier to entry for millions of people who are already using the app for communication.
Users can manage a diverse portfolio and earn yield without ever needing to leave the Telegram environment or navigate a complex standalone exchange interface. This seamless experience is key to onboarding the next wave of crypto users.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Telegram Wallet?
It is a third-party cryptocurrency wallet and mini-application that operates directly within the Telegram messaging app, allowing users to buy, sell, and store digital assets.
When will the new tokens and yield feature be available?
The major update is scheduled to roll out gradually over the next two months, starting after the announcement made on March 13.
Can I withdraw the new altcoins to my own external wallet?
Not initially. At launch, the new non-TON tokens will only be available for in-app trading. Full on-chain withdrawal functionality for these specific assets is not part of the first phase.
How does the yield generation work?
For TON, the yield is generated through staking on the TON blockchain. The wallet infrastructure handles the technical staking process on behalf of the user, who simply deposits their tokens to start earning.
Is there a minimum deposit to earn yield?
Yes, for the TON flexible earnings product, the minimum deposit required is 0.1 TON.
Will this be available to all Telegram users globally?
Availability can be subject to regional regulations. Users should check within their app for the latest information on which services are offered in their specific country. To understand the real-time tools and services available in your region, you can always check the latest updates and supported features.
Looking Ahead
The expansion of the Telegram Wallet represents a strategic push to capture a larger share of the retail crypto market. By offering a one-stop-shop for trading a wide array of tokens and earning yield, Telegram is positioning itself as a major gateway into the crypto economy.
This development underscores the growing convergence of social messaging platforms and financial services, creating a more integrated and user-friendly future for digital assets.