The launch of Telegram’s integrated crypto wallet in the U.S. signifies a monumental shift towards enabling self-custody and cryptocurrency transactions within one of the largest messaging platforms in the nation.
As reported by CNBC on July 22, Telegram users across the United States can now utilize the TON Wallet, marking a pioneering step for a self-custodial crypto wallet built into a mainstream messaging application in this market. This advancement highlights Telegram’s commitment to providing seamless crypto functionality to its extensive user base.
Developed by The Open Platform (TOP) and directly embedded within Telegram’s user interface, the wallet allows for the sending of stablecoins, token swaps, and digital asset management—all without the need for additional applications, downloads, or logins.
This rollout comes after a series of delays primarily due to regulatory apprehensions, which TOP’s CEO Andrew Rogozov noted have lessened significantly over the past year. Following an impressive milestone of over 100 million global wallet activations in 2024, the U.S. launch represents a crucial moment for both Telegram and its users.
Embracing a New Opportunity for Crypto Usability
For an extended period, Telegram approached the U.S. market with caution due to regulatory complexities. However, a shift in the regulatory landscape has paved the way for this significant development. Rogozov emphasized that as Telegram’s user base in the U.S. surged, recent improvements in regulation provided a more favorable environment for the crypto ecosystem.
While the company did not specify particular regulatory changes, it noted the SEC’s recent focus on narrowing its enforcement actions and dropping certain legal challenges, contributing to a clearer operational framework for personnel in the crypto infrastructure sector. Telegram’s U.S. user base has grown to over 87 million, many of whom are already active in the crypto space, making the timing for the wallet launch particularly strategic.
Rogozov positioned the U.S. launch as an opportunity to deliver a streamlined crypto experience that mirrors existing communication styles among American users. “Our aim,” he declared, “is to minimize friction as much as possible.” This philosophy is reflected in the wallet’s innovative design, which does away with browser extensions, app downloads, and complex seed phrases.
Onboarding to the wallet occurs seamlessly within the Telegram app, utilizing a dual-key backup system that securely links one half of the recovery credentials to the user’s account and the other half to their email. The integration of financial services and messaging is designed to facilitate stablecoin transfers that feel as effortless as sending a text.
In partnership with MoonPay, TON Wallet allows for zero-fee crypto purchases, debit card integration, and token swaps, all while maintaining regulatory compliance by delegating sensitive compliance tasks to partners.
