Durov Strengthens Control Over TON: Fees Drop Near Zero as Telegram Becomes Key Validator

The The Open Network (TON) ecosystem is entering its most decisive phase. Pavel Durov has announced a major strategic shift: Telegram is officially taking on the role of the primary architect and leading validator of the network. This move signals a transition from a foundation-led governance model to a direct-involvement model where the corporation serves as the network's main anchor.

Strategic Centralization: Why Telegram Is Taking the Lead

Previously, TON's development was largely decentralized through the TON Foundation. However, Durov's new strategy ensures that Telegram will act as the major validator, providing unprecedented network stability. This decision is designed to eliminate bureaucracy and speed up the cycle of critical network upgrades.

Statistical growth indicators: Data reveals that the number of active wallets in the TON ecosystem has surged to over 15.8 million, representing a 520% increase year-over-year. By strengthening its control, Telegram can seamlessly convert its massive audience of 950 million monthly active users into active participants in a decentralized economy.

Economic Revolution: Fees Slashed by 6x

A cornerstone of this upgrade is the radical reduction in transaction costs. According to Durov, fees have dropped approximately sixfold, reaching levels that are nearly negligible for everyday users.

Transaction Cost Comparison:

• TON: Average transfer fee is now less than $0.007.

• Ethereum (L1): Gas fees often reach $15 to $50 during peak traffic.

• Bitcoin: Standard transaction costs typically hover between $3 and $8.

This pricing strategy makes TON the ultimate platform for micro-payments and Telegram Mini Apps. In the long term, Durov aims for a model where some transactions become entirely free, with gas costs covered by service providers or ad-based revenue models.

Technological Benchmarks: The World’s Fastest Blockchain

In late 2024, TON proved its technical superiority by setting a world record of over 104,000 transactions per second (TPS). The current focus is now shifting from peak speed to infrastructure reliability under massive user load.

In the coming weeks, developers will receive access to enhanced SDKs, allowing them to deploy complex smart contracts within Telegram bots in just a few hours. This is expected to drive a massive influx of traditional Web2 developers into the Web3 space.

The Future of Toncoin: Moving from Speculation to Utility

The market has reacted with significant optimism to Durov’s initiatives. Toncoin (TON) has solidified its position in the global top 10 cryptocurrencies, with a market capitalization exceeding $18 billion.

Key Financial Metrics:

1. TON's share in social-driven crypto transactions increased by 42% in the last quarter.

2. The volume of USDT on TON transactions surged by 210% over the same period.

Durov’s vision is clear: Toncoin is no longer just a speculative asset. It is the functional fuel of a digital economy integrated into the world's fastest-growing messenger. Whether it's paying for ads, premium features, or digital goods, Toncoin provides real utility that transcends market volatility.