Telegram received its second update January update: new features and blockchain integration

Telegram, one of the most popular messaging platforms, continues to innovate despite mixed user feedback in recent years. After a January update that included a third-party system for verifying organizations and improved search filters, the app received another update, adding six new features.

Telegram’s latest update is now available.

Main Updates

1. Collectible Gifts as emoji statuses
   Users can now use their gifts as spectacular emoji statuses, giving their profile a unique look.

• To activate this feature, go to My Profile > Gifts, select a gift and click “Wear”.
• Removing the gift will return the profile to its original appearance.

2. Transferring Gifts to the TON Blockchain
   Gifts can be moved to The Open Network (TON) blockchain, which opens up the following possibilities:

• Giving gifts to other users.
• Auctioning gifts or storing them in the blockchain.
• Permanent management of gifts, even if access to your Telegram account is lost.

What is TON?
TON is a decentralized platform developed by Telegram that supports transactions, smart contracts, and decentralized applications (dApps). Such applications run on blockchain networks instead of centralized servers, offering increased security and transparency.

TON is a decentralized platform developed by Telegram that supports transactions, smart contracts and decentralized applications (dApps).

3. Sending Gifts to Channels
   Users can send gifts to channels in honor of holidays or significant achievements.

• Gifts are displayed in the channel profile.
• They can be improved with Stars, turning them into collectibles.
• Channel owners can transfer or auction gifts via blockchain.

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4. Gift Filtering on Channel Profiles
   The new Section «Gifts» allows you to sort gifts by the following criteria:

• Value of the gift.
• Collection status (limited or unlimited collection).
• Date of receipt.

Why is this important?
These features make Telegram more integrated with blockchain technology, giving users new ways to personalize and interact with content. In addition, such moves could attract an audience interested in cryptocurrencies and decentralized technologies.

Why it’s important.

Conclusion

Telegram continues to evolve the platform, adding new features for gamers, collectors and channel owners. The second update in January 2025 makes the app more interactive and focuses on decentralization, which could help Telegram strengthen its position among competitors.

The second update in January 2025 makes the app more interactive and focuses on decentralization, which could help Telegram strengthen its position among competitors.

For users who value personalization and the use of blockchain technology, these changes open up a host of new opportunities.