The Open Network (TON) has recently introduced an on-chain encrypted messaging feature, as announced by the network’s developer, TON Foundation, on July 3. With this new feature, TON users are now able to send private messages securely within the network.
TON is a blockchain network that originated from code developed by the Telegram instant messaging app team. However, Telegram abandoned the project in July 2020, even before launching a mainnet. Despite this setback, the code was open-sourced, allowing other developers to continue building upon it.
The current iteration of TON, created by the TON Foundation, boasts greater scalability and transaction throughput compared to other options in the Web3 ecosystem, all while maintaining a decentralized structure.
Although TON has always allowed users to send messages through transactions, these messages were previously entirely public. The newly introduced feature enables users to encrypt their messages, ensuring that only the intended recipient can read them.
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According to Anatoly Makosov, a core developer of TON, this feature was developed to add a personal touch to transactions. Previously, users could include text for the recipient, such as “for coffee” or “happy birthday,” thereby customizing the interaction. Now, with full encryption, this popular feature remains available.
Makosov also highlighted the potential usefulness of encrypted messaging in case of a server failure or an “apocalypse” scenario, where traditional messenger servers become inaccessible. In such circumstances, TON can serve as a reliable and safeguarded method for private communication.
To access the encrypted messaging feature, users can utilize various retail wallet applications, including MyTonWallet, OpenMask, and TON Wallet. Additionally, the feature will be integrated into the mobile wallet Tonkeeper in upcoming updates.
In a bid to attract more developers to build on the network, the TON Foundation launched a $25 million accelerator program in May. This initiative aims to encourage app developers to explore the potential of the TON network and create innovative applications.
Furthermore, in November, an independent development team successfully created a Telegram trading bot, facilitating the onboarding of users to the TON network. This highlights the synergy between the blockchain community and Telegram’s existing user base.
With the introduction of encrypted messaging, TON further establishes itself as a secure and privacy-focused blockchain network. Combining the advantages of blockchain technology with enhanced messaging capabilities, TON offers users a unique and powerful platform for secure communication and decentralized transactions.
As TON continues to evolve and attract developers, it is poised to make significant contributions to the Web3 ecosystem. With its emphasis on scalability, transaction throughput, and now encrypted messaging, TON positions itself as a strong contender in the blockchain space, offering users a robust and versatile platform for their digital interactions.
In conclusion, TON’s recent release of an on-chain encrypted messaging feature marks an important milestone for the network. By offering secure and private communication capabilities, TON enhances its value proposition as a decentralized blockchain network. As developers continue to build on the TON platform and explore its potential, the network is expected to gain further traction within the Web3 ecosystem.
