In a strategic move to bolster trust within its user community, Telegram has unveiled an updated verification system that transcends its previous model, which primarily focused on certifying public figures and organizations. This new development allows third-party authorities—such as food safety agencies and educational organizations—to authenticate users. The verified accounts will boast a distinctive logo, differentiating them from the conventional blue checkmark system. This initiative represents a bid for a more decentralized approach to account validation, positioning Telegram as a pioneer in fostering credibility and combating misinformation across social platforms.
The implications of this change are significant. By enabling verified entities to oversee their authentication processes, Telegram not only eases the verification burden from its own resources but also empowers recognized institutions to assume an active role in maintaining platform integrity. The company asserts that this method will enhance user safety and provide a proactive solution against potential scams. To participate in this verification process, individuals or organizations must first meet eligibility criteria and complete a rigorous application process—an important step to ensure that only credible parties are verified on the platform.
NFTs: A Novel Gift-Giving Experience
A particularly captivating feature introduced in this update is the ability to transform digital gifts into non-fungible tokens (NFTs). Telegram users can now purchase gifts using Telegram Stars, either through the app or the Fragment website, by linking their TON cryptocurrency wallets. This feature not only modernizes the concept of gift-giving but also intertwines social interactions with the burgeoning world of blockchain technology. Users can personalize their NFTs with unique backgrounds and icons, tailoring the gift experience to their liking.
Furthermore, this innovation includes a trading capability for these NFTs across various platforms, enhancing the value and appeal of virtual gifts. However, as Telegram also acknowledges, users should be mindful that an additional fee for upgrading gifts to NFTs will apply to cover blockchain transaction costs. This strategic integration of cryptocurrency facilitates creator monetization—a trend that Telegram has actively pursued through its ecosystem by allowing payments for games and mini-apps.
Enhanced Interactivity and User Experience
Beyond the verification and NFT updates, Telegram has introduced new interactive features aimed at boosting user engagement. The addition of emoji reactions for service messages (e.g., notifications about new members joining a group) adds a layer of expressiveness previously lacking in these interactions. Furthermore, the introduction of refined search filters across private chats, group channels, and public discussions equips users with powerful tools for navigating content efficiently—a critical need given the increasing volume of information exchanged on the platform.
In essence, Telegram’s latest update marks a significant leap towards enhancing user engagement, security, and interactivity. By marrying robust verification systems with advancements in digital gifts and novel communication features, the app positions itself as an