Popular messaging app, Telegram has made headlines after integrating a crypto wallet from the Open Network (TON). The integration is accessible to its 800 million users globally, significantly positioning Telegram as a mainstream blockchain platform. The news saw the price of TON coin registering a 7% leap.
Despite the influx of available blockchain networks, Telegram chose the TON network for its Web3 infrastructure, potentially due to the pre-existing TON Foundation’s promise of preferential access to Telegram’s advertising platform for projects built on the TON blockchain.
The integration provides undeniable benefits, such as the potential for users to interact directly with blockchain technology from their messaging app. However, disappointingly, the wallet feature will initially exclude users in the United States, among other countries. Furthermore, with important information regarding the rollout still emerging, uncertainty prevails.
At the same time, crypto exchange Coinbase announced its decision to integrate with Bitcoin’s layer 2 payment protocol, Lightning Network (LN). This move aims to provide a solution to Bitcoin’s scalability problem manifested in slow transaction speeds. It’s a decision that promises faster and cheaper transactions for Bitcoin, a major selling point for newer cryptocurrency projects offering similar, if not superior, transaction capabilities.
Yet, integrating LN exposed Coinbase to critiques due to perceived reduction of incentives for exchange’s income. But CEO Brian Armstrong remained undeterred, affirming Bitcoin as an essential asset and seeking patience for the integration process. Possibly underlining the benefit outweighs potential drawbacks; therefore, the decision was celebrated as a hallmark moment for proponents of efficient Bitcoin microtransactions.
BJuly also saw Binance successfully complete Bitcoin’s LN integration, offering a precedent for Coinbase. With this choice, Binance users opting for either withdrawal or deposit now have an additional option “LIGHTNING”, offering more diversified transaction options.
In conclusion, the endorsement of blockchain and integration of crypto wallets by significant players like Telegram and Coinbase could drive widespread adoption and acceptance of cryptocurrencies. Conversely, while each step forward shines a light on the promise of practicality and efficiency, the integration processes and consequential exclusions might inhibit realization of the blockchain’s full potential. This multi-dimensional effect leaves the crypto enthusiast waiting with bated breath for the repercussions of each integration within the swiftly evolving crypto landscape.
Source: Cointelegraph
