Telegram founder Pavel Durov announced that the messaging platform will take on a more central operational role in The Open Network (TON), becoming its largest validator and effectively replacing the TON Foundation as the network’s primary driving force. The announcement, made in a Telegram post on Monday, sent Toncoin (TON) prices surging 33.8% over 24 hours to $1.86, according to CoinGecko data.
What the Shift Means for TON
Durov stated that TON transaction fees have dropped sixfold to “nearly zero,” and that the next phase will prioritize “tech superiority.” This includes launching a new website, developer tools, and performance upgrades expected within the next two to three weeks. The move is part of a broader plan to “Make TON Great Again,” tightening the link between the blockchain network and the messaging platform that has driven much of its consumer adoption.
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Uncertainty Around the TON Foundation and Validator Structure
It remains unclear what role the TON Foundation will play after the transition, or how Telegram’s validator position will be structured. Specific details such as Telegram’s validator stake or its share of network validation have not been disclosed. Cointelegraph reached out to TON for additional information but had not received a response by publication time.
Market Reaction and Trader Sentiment
Crypto traders responded positively to the news, with Toncoin seeing a significant price jump. The rally reflects market optimism about Telegram’s deeper involvement in TON’s infrastructure, which could enhance network stability and adoption. However, the lack of clarity on governance and validator specifics leaves some questions unanswered for investors.
Telegram’s Expanding Role in TON
The announcement builds on earlier integrations that moved Telegram’s role from product distribution and payment rails toward network infrastructure. In 2024, Durov announced that Telegram would use TON and Toncoin for ad revenue-sharing transactions, with channel owners receiving 50% of ad revenue. In January 2025, the TON Foundation expanded its partnership with Telegram, making TON Connect the exclusive wallet-connect protocol for Telegram Mini Apps. Telegram’s blockchain guidelines also required existing Mini Apps on other blockchains to transition to TON by February 2025, including migrating smart contracts and exclusively using TON Connect.
Conclusion
Telegram’s move to become TON’s largest validator marks a significant shift in the blockchain’s governance and operational structure. While the immediate market reaction has been positive, the long-term implications depend on how Telegram handles validator responsibilities and what role, if any, the TON Foundation retains. Readers should monitor further announcements for clarity on these points.
FAQs
Q1: Why is Telegram becoming TON’s largest validator?
Telegram founder Pavel Durov announced the move to deepen the platform’s role in TON’s infrastructure, focusing on tech upgrades and lower fees, as part of a plan to “Make TON Great Again.”
Q2: How did the market react to the announcement?
Toncoin (TON) rose 33.8% over 24 hours to $1.86, reflecting positive trader sentiment about Telegram’s increased involvement in the network.
Q3: What happens to the TON Foundation now?
It is currently unclear what role the TON Foundation will play after Telegram takes over as the main driving force. No official details have been provided about its future involvement.
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