Pavel Durov said Telegram plans to take on a leading role in The Open Network, replacing the TON Foundation as the primary driver of the ecosystem and becoming its largest validator.
In a post on Monday, Durov noted that TON transaction fees have dropped sixfold to “nearly zero” and said the network’s next phase will focus on “tech superiority,” including a revamped website, improved developer tools, and performance upgrades.
He said the changes are expected within the next two to three weeks, describing the shift as part of a broader plan to “Make TON Great Again.”
The move would further deepen Telegram’s involvement in TON’s infrastructure and development, strengthening the ties between the blockchain network and the messaging platform that has fueled much of its user adoption.
However, key details remain unclear, including the future role of the TON Foundation, how Telegram’s validator position will be structured, and whether the company will disclose specifics such as its stake or share in network validation.
Crypto traders have responded positively to the prospect of a deeper role for Telegram in The Open Network. Data from CoinGecko shows that Toncoin jumped 33.8% over the past 24 hours to $1.86 following Pavel Durov’s announcement.
Telegram has steadily expanded TON integrations
The latest move builds on earlier integrations, shifting Telegram’s role from primarily product distribution and payments toward core network infrastructure.
In 2024, Durov said Telegram would use TON and Toncoin for ad revenue sharing and payments to channel owners, who receive 50% of the revenue generated from ads in their channels.
In January 2025, the TON Foundation expanded its partnership with Telegram, making TON Connect the exclusive wallet connection protocol for Telegram Mini Apps.
Telegram’s blockchain guidelines also required existing Mini Apps built on other blockchains to migrate to TON by February 2025, including transitioning smart contracts and exclusively using TON Connect.
