Telegram has rolled out its first update of the year, adding a new account verification method powered by third-parties, new message search filters, and the ability to turn gifts into NFTs.
The chat app already had a program to verify public figures and organizations on the platform, and it has now launched a new project to let already-verified third-party authorities, such as food quality regulators or educational consortiums, verify an account.
Accounts that are verified by a third party will have a new logo next to their names instead of a blue checkmark.
“This decentralized platform for additional verification will help prevent scams and reduce misinformation — with a unique proactive solution that sets a new safety standard for social platforms,” Telegram said in a blog post.
People or organizations that want to be authenticated will need to be first undergo verification and complete an application to become eligible to recieve the verified mark. Telegram said that entities can use its Bot API to assign or remove verification — somewhat akin to organizations buying verification on X and verifying their affiliated accounts. These affiliated accounts will have the organization’s logo on their profile once they are verified.
Telegram also launched a way to turn gifts into NFTs with custom backgrounds and icons. Users can send gifts by spending Telegram Stars, which you can buy through the app or through the Fragment site by connecting their TON crypto wallet.
Telegram said users would be able to trade these NFTs on different platforms. Notably, Telegram charges users to upgrade their gifts to collectibles to cover blockchain transaction costs.
Telegram has used cryptocurrencies for creator monetization as well as for payments on the platform for games and mini apps.
The company has also rolled out an emoji reaction feature for service messages, such as someone joining a group, and new search filters for private chats, group chats, and channels.
