TON-based Telegram mini-apps (TMAs) are revolutionizing user experiences on Telegram by providing additional services and functionalities. These TMAs can be monetized through various methods such as advertising, in-app purchases, subscription models, token issuance, and Play-to-Earn or Tap-to-Earn games. The introduction of TON mini-apps has significantly transformed how users interact with Telegram’s digital services.
Web3 specialist Kirubakaran Reddy has observed a remarkable growth in the TON ecosystem, particularly within the mini-game sector. He highlighted the presence of over 300 playable mini-games within the Telegram app. Reddy also stated that a significant portion of Telegram’s user base, around 500 million out of 900 million users, actively engage with TMAs on a monthly basis. Recent investments, including a $2.5 million incubation program and a $40 million TON Venture fund, further demonstrate the platform’s promising future.
Telegram mini-apps revenue models driving profits on the TON blockchain
Token issuance stands out as one of the simplest and most popular revenue models for TMAs on the TON blockchain. The number of blockchain addresses holding mini-app tokens serves as a key metric, with DOGS boasting over 5 million addresses and the PEPE memecoin having less than 300,000 addresses. The strategy of converting users into verified KYC users on centralized exchanges (CEXs) has introduced the pre-deposit model, leveraging CEXs’ interest in acquiring new users.
In-app purchases within mini-games emerge as the primary revenue source for game developers. Users can purchase virtual items like character skins and enhanced experiences using in-game currencies. Catizen’s token issuance strategy rewarded users making in-app purchases with more airdrops compared to non-purchasing users.
Advertising revenue is another vital component for mini-game developers, enabling them to generate income through various ad formats such as rewarded interstitial ads, video ads, and banner ads. Adsgram supports different ad types, including static banners, 15-second videos, and channel subscriptions. Hamster Kombat has successfully implemented these models, allowing users to earn coins and keys by watching ads in the Tap-to-Earn mini-game.
Brand partnerships and game distribution serve as additional revenue streams, as game developers collaborate with brands to incorporate revenue-generating brand ads. Hamster Kombat’s adherence to the ‘no-pay-to-win’ principle has led to numerous brand partnerships, encouraging players to download and play games to earn key generation codes supporting ad revenue for mini-games without monetary expenditure.
Viral marketing and social interaction have played crucial roles in driving user growth and engagement for mini-games. By leveraging social sharing and viral marketing techniques, mini-games can capitalize on in-game social rewards. Telegram mini-app invitation links facilitate user expansion, enhancing in-app purchase conversions and overall user engagement.
Tournament prizes and leaderboards can be implemented to attract more players and boost gameplay activity. Game developers can generate revenue through events, user entry fees, or sponsorships, particularly appealing to players seeking in-game rewards or physical prizes through tournament participation.
Some mini-games offer subscription services and VIP memberships, granting subscribers access to exclusive items or features, including ad removal, special in-game privileges, and bonus rewards.
The reward system enables players to support content creators or tip game developers, fostering a sense of community and encouraging quality content creation. This model has proven successful for indie game developers, with tipping options integrated within the game to facilitate microtransactions and support developers.
Leading mini-apps on Telegram identified by software developers Ekotek
Blockchain software developer Ekotek has revealed key insights into popular mini-apps on Telegram, such as Catizen, boasting 2.3 million users, over 220,000 on-chain participants, and more than 520,000 daily active users. The mini-app has witnessed substantial transaction activity, with users conducting nearly 2.6 million on-chain transactions, resulting in over $3 million in revenue.
DOGS, a prominent project within the TON ecosystem, has garnered over $1 million Telegram users as of September 2024, propelling it into the top 100 crypto projects by market cap. The record-breaking TGE for DOGS on the TON ecosystem drew over 17 million users claiming tokens held in 4.5 million wallets. Binance users have the opportunity to earn DOGS tokens through staking FDUSD or BNB.
Hamster Kombat offers a rewarding gaming experience, allowing users to earn coins by simply tapping to collect them. Users can increase their coin earnings by completing daily tasks such as watching ads, following the game’s social media channels, and logging in regularly. Referral rewards ranging from 5,000 to 25,000 coins can be obtained, with premium Telegram accounts receiving higher rewards. The game boasts a community of over 50 million subscribers on its official Telegram channel, 11 million followers on Twitter, and more than 250 million active players.