Key Takeaways
- TON Wallet’s U.S. launch makes crypto and stablecoin transactions native to Telegram, increasing accessibility.
- USDT leads on the TON blockchain, benefiting from early adoption and minimal competition.
- Regulatory climate improvements have allowed Telegram to re-enter the U.S. crypto space with a self-custodial, DeFi-friendly wallet.
Telegram users in the United States can now access self-custodial crypto payments directly inside the messaging app, following the official rollout of the TON Wallet. This move brings key features like Toncoin transfers, NFT functionality, and stablecoin transactions—most notably with USDT—into one of the world’s most widely used messaging platforms.
Seamless Crypto Payments Inside Telegram
The TON Wallet is built on the TON blockchain, originally created by Telegram and now maintained by the independent TON Foundation. Its integration within the Telegram app offers users the ability to send, receive, and store digital assets without leaving the messaging interface.
While the wallet has supported Toncoin and NFTs since its global rollout began, its support for USDT stablecoin transactions marks a key feature for the U.S. audience. Users can now make dollar-based payments via Telegram with zero fees using payment methods like Apple Pay, Google Pay, or credit cards—thanks to MoonPay integration.
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From Regulatory Hurdles to U.S. Adoption
Telegram’s journey with blockchain technology has been rocky, particularly in the U.S. In 2019, the SEC halted Telegram’s original blockchain initiative due to securities violations. However, since the TON blockchain was relaunched as an open-source project in 2020, and with changing regulatory sentiment in 2025, the company has revived its crypto ambitions.
“The U.S. launch of TON Wallet is a major step toward making decentralized finance part of everyday life,” said Max Crown, CEO of the TON Foundation. The shift reflects a broader trend toward Web3 adoption in messaging platforms, particularly as U.S. regulators show signs of a more favorable stance.
USDT Dominates on the TON Blockchain
Unlike other blockchains that support multiple stablecoins, USDT enjoys a near-monopoly on TON. Launched as a native “Jetton” token in 2024, USDT has quickly become the leading stablecoin for Telegram-based transactions. Its dominance may be due in part to Circle’s regulatory caution, which has delayed USDC’s arrival on TON.
With Telegram’s recent wallet launch in the U.S., USDT stands to gain exposure among millions of new users. Combined with simple onboarding and low transaction fees, the TON Wallet could become a gateway for mainstream stablecoin usage in American markets.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. The author’s views are personal and may not reflect the views of GameDegen.com. Before making any investment decisions, you should always conduct your own research. GameDegen.com is not responsible for any financial losses.
