In a significant move that could reshape the future of the TON (The Open Network) ecosystem, Telegram founder and CEO Pavel Durov has announced that his platform is stepping up as the primary force behind the blockchain. The announcement, shared on X (formerly Twitter), signals a bold shift aimed at accelerating technical development and user adoption.
Durov revealed that transaction fees on TON have plummeted sixfold, now approaching near-zero levels. This dramatic reduction removes a key barrier for everyday users and developers, making the network more competitive with leading blockchains that emphasize speed and low costs.”The next step, Telegram replaces the TON Foundation as the driving force behind TON and becomes its largest validator,” Durov stated. “The focus shifts to tech superiority. New ton.org dev tools, new performance upgrades. Timeline: 2-3 weeks.”
This transition marks a pivotal moment for TON, which was originally developed in connection with Telegram but has operated somewhat independently through the TON Foundation. By positioning Telegram as the largest validator and central driver, Durov aims to inject fresh momentum into the project. The emphasis on “tech superiority” suggests upcoming enhancements in developer tools, scalability, and overall performance that could attract more builders and applications to the ecosystem.
Why This Matters
TON has long been intertwined with Telegram’s massive user base of over 900 million monthly active users. The blockchain powers features like Telegram Mini Apps, payments, and various decentralized applications. However, it has faced challenges in broader mainstream adoption and technical polish compared to rivals like Solana or newer Layer-1 networks.With fees now ultra-low and Telegram directly involved, the network is poised for growth.
Becoming the largest validator gives Telegram significant influence over network security and governance, potentially streamlining decision-making and resource allocation toward user-friendly innovations.
Community reaction has been overwhelmingly positive, with many users celebrating the news using hashtags like #MTONGA (Make TON Great Again). Memes, support posts, and calls for further integration have flooded social media, reflecting high excitement among TON holders and Telegram enthusiasts.
What to Expect Next
According to Durov, new developer tools and performance upgrades are slated for release within 2-3 weeks. These could include improved documentation, SDKs, and optimizations that make building on TON faster and more efficient.
The renewed focus on technology may help TON stand out in a crowded blockchain space where usability and speed are paramount.
This development also reinforces Telegram’s commitment to privacy, decentralization, and resistance to censorship, values Durov has championed throughout his career. By deepening integration with TON, Telegram could expand its in-app economy, enabling seamless crypto transactions, NFTs, and decentralized services for hundreds of millions of users worldwide.
As the crypto market watches closely, Durov’s hands-on involvement could be the catalyst TON needs to reach new heights. With near-zero fees and Telegram’s engineering muscle behind it, the blockchain is entering an exciting new chapter.