Telegram, the popular messaging platform around the world, started the new year with a important feature!
The latest features include the ability to gift non-fungible tokens (NFTs) and a decentralized third-party verification system.
Explore: Bitget and Foresight Ventures bet big with $20 million to power Telegram’s decentralized mini-apps
Check for public figures and organizations
Traditionally, Telegram provides public figures and organizations with verification 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 this 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 checkmark. This change aims to make verified profiles more recognizable while adding an extra layer of credibility.
To receive verification, individuals or organizations must go through 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 Donations: A Fusion of Cryptocurrency and Social Engagement
Telegram has also introduced NFT gifting features.
Users can now purchase “Telegram Stars”, available directly via the app or via the Fragment website by connecting their TON (Toncoin) crypto wallets.
Users have the option to mint 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.
DISCOVER: Year-End Reflection: How Have Bitcoin and Cryptocurrencies Reshaped the Financial Landscape in 2024?
Other Telegram improvements: emoji reactions and advanced search filters
In addition to its major encryption-focused updates, Telegram has rolled out several smaller but impactful improvements:
Users can now react to service messages such as welcome to groups with emojis, adding a fun and interactive element to group interactions.
The update includes improved search capabilities tailored to private chats, group discussions 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 featured crypto wallet with a P2P marketplace that supports Bitcoin, USDT, and Toncoin. pic.twitter.com/6w4a0CzoSZ
—Rufas Kamau
(@RufasKe) December 7, 2023
The post Telegram Kicks Off 2025 with New Crypto Features: NFT Gifts and Third-Party Verification appeared first on 99Bitcoins.