Telegram, the globally popular messaging platform, started the new year with a important feature!
The latest features include the ability to offer non-fungible tokens (NFTs) and a decentralized third-party verification system.
Explore: Bitget and Foresight Ventures bet big with $20 million to boost Telegram’s decentralized mini-apps
Verification for public figures and organizations
Traditionally, Telegram allowed public figures and organizations to authenticate their presence on the platform.
However, the new update takes this feature to the next level by introducing third-party verification.
This system allows external entities, such as educational institutions, food quality regulators, and other trusted organizations, to verify user accounts.
Telegram described the initiative as a proactive solution to combat misinformation and scams.
Verified accounts will now display a distinct logo representing the verifying organization instead of the traditional blue check mark. This change aims to make verified profiles more recognizable while adding an extra layer of credibility.
To receive verification, individuals or organizations must undergo a rigorous application process.
Once approved, third-party authorities can manage verification statuses using Telegram’s Bot API, which allows them to assign or revoke verification as needed.
NFT Gifts: A Fusion of Crypto and Social Engagement
Telegram has also introduced NFT gifting capabilities.
Users can now purchase “Telegram Stars”, which are available directly through the app or through the Fragment website by linking their TON crypto wallets (Toncoin).
Users have the option to create these gifts as NFTs, turning them into collectible digital assets.
Telegram charges a fee for upgrading gifts to NFTs, which can then be traded on various blockchain platforms.
TO DISCOVER: End of year reflection: how have Bitcoin and crypto reshaped the financial landscape in 2024?
Other Telegram improvements: Emoji reactions and advanced search filters
In addition to its major crypto-focused updates, Telegram has rolled out several smaller but impactful improvements:
Users can now react to service messages such as group welcomes with emojis, adding a fun and interactive element to group interactions.
The update includes improved search features tailored to private chats, group chats, and channels, making it easier for users to find specific content.
Telegram is known for introducing new features to support the crypto environment.
Telegram has introduced a fully equipped crypto wallet with a P2P marketplace supporting Bitcoin, USDT and Toncoin. pic.twitter.com/6w4a0CzoSZ
—Rufas Kamau
(@RufasKe) December 7, 2023
(@RufasKe) The post Telegram kicks off 2025 with new crypto features: NFT gifts and third-party verification appeared first on 99Bitcoins.
