Telegram is looking to start supporting and processing crypto transactions to its internal Mini Apps ecosystem within the platform. In a fresh development, Telegram-backed The Open Network (TON) Foundation has launched a payments software development kit (SDK) called Ton Pay to let Mini App developers receive crypto payments without having to exit the Telegram app.
The TON Foundation has reportedly claimed that this Ton Pay SDK will allow Mini App developers and merchants integrate crypto payment infrastructure to their offerings.
Telegram’s Mini Apps feature exploded in popularity soon after its launch in 2023. It lets Telegram users access Web3 games, services, and tools without having to download different apps. Telegram Mini Apps reportedly hold an estimate of 1,200 games and dApps, with over 600 supported on the TON blockchain itself.
With Ton Pay, Telegram is looking to eliminate glitches and risks associated with crypto payment processing for Mini App purchases. In a wider picture, the messaging app is also looking to expand its array of crypto-friendly services.
The official X handle of the TON blockchain announced Ton Pay on Monday.
“What TON Pay does — Shared payments layer for all TON-based apps, near-instant on-chain settlement, low transaction fees (built for micro-payments), Merchant dashboard and analytics, no custom wallet or settlement logic needed,” it said.
For now, the Ton Pay SDK has not been made live. A waitlist to get early merchant access to it, however, has been opened.
In the coming months, the Ton Foundation plans to team up with third-party custody service providers to work with Ton Pay.