Is Telegram the Next Super App?
Since 2013, Telegram has been steadily climbing the ranks. Currently, the platform boasts 800 million monthly active users worldwide and is approaching the category of applications known as Super Apps. For those unfamiliar, WeChat is a Super App in China that combines instant messaging, social media, and payment processing into one central application/ecosystem. Let’s delve into why Telegram might just emerge as the next super app and what it means for users and businesses.
Mini Apps: A Decentralized Ecosystem
WeChat, the Chinese super app, pioneered the concept of mini apps—lightweight applications that operate within the WeChat ecosystem. These mini apps serve various functions, from payments and food delivery to e-commerce and ride-hailing. Telegram is now following suit by creating a platform for third-party developers to build their own mini apps. These mini apps can be launched right inside Telegram, replacing traditional websites. Imagine ordering food, booking a ride, or even playing games—all without leaving the Telegram app.
Telegram’s mini app ecosystem isn’t just about convenience; it’s also about decentralization. The platform relies on a network of infrastructure partners from both the established tech world and the crypto space. Here’s where the TON Foundation (Telegram Open Network) comes into play. TON Foundation operates independently but lays the blockchain groundwork for Telegram. By partnering with Tencent Cloud, a heavyweight in cloud services, Telegram aims to offer a decentralized solution that expands its range of services.
The Power of Decentralized Payments
WeChat’s mini apps are primarily confined to China. Telegram, on the other hand, has a global user base. By leveraging blockchain technology, Telegram’s mini-app ecosystem has the potential to reach an even broader spectrum of users around the world. Imagine seamless cross-border transactions, regardless of national boundaries. Whether you’re in Tokyo, New York, or Nairobi, Telegram’s decentralized payments network could revolutionize how we transact.
Gaming, Services, and More
Telegram’s mini apps won’t be limited to a single category. Developers can create mini apps for gaming, restaurant reservations, news, fitness tracking, and more. Imagine playing a game with friends, booking a table at your favorite restaurant, and catching up on the latest news—all within the same app. Telegram’s ecosystem aims to be multifaceted, catering to diverse user needs.
Privacy and Security
Telegram has always emphasized privacy and security. As it expands its ecosystem, these principles remain intact. Users can trust that their data won’t be exploited for targeted ads or other purposes. This commitment to privacy sets Telegram apart from many other platforms and could be a significant factor in its rise as a super app.
Telegram’s journey toward becoming the next super app is exciting. As it continues to evolve, users can look forward to a seamless experience that combines messaging, payments, services, and more—all under one roof. Whether it fully rivals WeChat remains to be seen, but Telegram’s rise is a testament to the power of innovation and user-centric design.