- Telegram introduces a program to share 50% of ad revenue with public channel owners if they have over 1,000 subscribers.
- The revenue will be paid in Toncoin, Telegram’s native cryptocurrency, following a significant increase in its value.
- The initiative aims to leverage Telegram’s vast user base for broader blockchain adoption, introducing DApps as Mini Apps.
Telegram Messenger has unveiled a new scheme to reward owners of popular public channels by sharing half of the advertising income generated within their spaces. This innovative approach, announced on March 31, marks a significant shift in how content creators on the platform can monetize their followings. To qualify for this revenue-sharing model, a channel must boast a minimum of 1,000 subscribers.
Pavel Durov, the visionary behind Telegram, initially shared plans for this revenue-sharing model in February 2024, alongside the introduction of the Telegram Ad Platform. This move is designed not only to provide a financial boon to channel owners but also to promote the use of Toncoin, Telegram’s own cryptocurrency, within the platform’s ecosystem.
Cryptocurrency at the Core
Following the announcement, the value of Toncoin experienced a remarkable surge, doubling in price, which illustrates the significant impact of Telegram’s new policies on the cryptocurrency market. Channel owners participating in this program will receive their earnings in Toncoin, with the added convenience of withdrawing their funds without incurring any transaction fees.
This initiative is part of a broader strategy to integrate blockchain technology more seamlessly into the Telegram user experience. By incorporating Toncoin as a payment option for ad purchases and rewarding content creators in this digital currency, Telegram is fostering a more crypto-friendly environment.
Driving Blockchain Adoption Through Innovation
Telegram’s strategic move extends beyond monetary incentives for channel owners. The platform is keen on driving mass adoption of blockchain technology through user-friendly applications known as Mini Apps. These decentralized applications, according to Justin Hyun from the Ton Foundation, are designed to introduce users to blockchain functionalities in a subtle, engaging manner.
By embedding these Mini Apps within Telegram channels, the platform aims to onboard millions of users onto the blockchain, making the technology an integral part of their digital interactions without overwhelming them with its complexities. This approach underscores Telegram’s commitment to leveraging its extensive user base and content ecosystem to pave the way for widespread blockchain adoption.
As Telegram continues to evolve, its integration of cryptocurrency and blockchain technologies into its core operations is setting a precedent for other platforms, signaling a potential shift towards more decentralized, user-rewarding social media landscapes.
