The ever-expanding universe of Telegram-based apps, known as tApps, offers an outstanding range of utilities, games, bots, and now TON-Web3 apps. As the landscape thrives with innovation, you might find it challenging to keep up with all the latest apps added to the [tApps Center](https://www.tapps.center/). With over 75 listed tApps and hundreds of new apps applying for listing every month, it’s no easy task. 

That’s why we’re launching a **new weekly content series titled Weekly tApps Digest**, a carefully curated list spotlighting four outstanding tApps each week, each for one of the four tApps Center categories: Management, Web3, Games, and Utilities. 

Whether you’re a Telegram power-user, a casual Telegram chad, or a developer looking for inspiration, our Weekly tApps Digest will serve you as a compass in navigating the tApps Center. 

## **What are tApps?**
Let’s explain the basics before we get into the weekly digest. The term *“tApps”* stands for Telegram-Integrated Applications. These third-party independent apps, bots, and games are directly integrated into the Telegram Messenger and require no installation. As a matter of fact, with tApps, you never even have to leave Telegram. 

Leveraging Telegram’s user-friendly interface, the massive user base of 800M active monthly users, and various developer support programs, tApps aims to become the next big trend in Web3. Essentially, they serve as an extension of Telegram's core features, enriching your messaging experience with added capabilities and features. 

## **Enter Weekly tApps Digest**
In the dynamic world of tApps, user needs and technological advancement are ever-changing.  At the time of publishing, there are under 80 listed tApps, but many more are coming, and sooner or later, you won’t know which tApp to try next. The Weekly tApps Digest is designed to sift through the sea of games, bots, and apps and highlight those that truly stand out in terms of functionality, user experience, and added value. 

We will select four tApps we are excited to share with you each week. Please note that this isn’t to say that the other apps do not deserve the shine. We will do our best to feature as many apps as possible, and we will not cover the same app twice – each week, four new curated tApps. 

We will help you discover the most innovative apps to cut through the noise and get to the ones you should try. You will learn about the different apps, experience the possibilities of building on Telegram, and find the newest trends before anyone else. 

## **Weekly tApps Digest, September 16-22**

- **Management**
    - **[Community](https://t.me/community_bot/)** – Community app is a powerful Telegram-native toolset designed to supercharge your groups, channels, and products with a touch of magic. Community’s goal is to cover all the main cases for communities to gain healthy engagement, accelerate growth, and much more, like incentive campaigns or competitions. Discover a range of vibrant communities by opening the app.
- **Web3**
    - **[@Wallet](https://t.me/wallet)** – Wallet is a Telegram-native cryptocurrency wallet that allows you to buy, send, and exchange crypto easily and securely, directly from your Telegram account. Wallet now also offers a new self-custody solution called TON Space, where you own your private keys and regain your financial sovereignty. TON Space also supports sending, receiving, and displaying NFTs. 
- **Utilities**
    - **[Mobile](https://t.me/Mobile/)** – The Mobile app offers you a fast and confidential internet connection without any restrictions. You can buy digital eSIM with Toncoin or any debit/credit card, load the eSIM into your phone, and access the internet with a built-in VPN in over 70 countries. The cheapest data plans are starting at just $4.66. 
- **Games**
    - **[Fanton Fantasy Football](https://t.me/fantongamebot/)** – As the name says, Fanton is a fantasy football game where you can play for free and compete for attractive prizes. Assemble your team of five football players for each matchday across multiple leagues, play tournaments against other players, and get a chance to win real cash prizes. 



The Weekly tApps Digest sets the stage for discovery, learning, and innovation within the Telegram app ecosystem. With over 800M active monthly users on Telegram, the potential is unlimited, and we hope you’ll stay tuned for next week’s digest. 

Ready to discover more tApps? **Visit the [Telegram Apps Center](https://www.tapps.center/) now**.

Introducing the Weekly tApps Digest: Your Essential Guide to Telegram Apps

Welcome to the TON Smart Challenge #4, a one-week contest open to both beginners and experienced FunC developers, featuring a total prize fund of 30,000 TON.  


<button href="https://t.me/toncontests_bot" passutmsource="true">
  Join the contest
</button >
<br/>


## **About the Contest**

The TON Smart Challenge #4 continues our tradition of offering tasks that showcase the fundamental aspects of how smart contracts function in TON. Participants will have the opportunity to master complex cell manipulations, smart contract storage organization, comment handling, basic cryptography, and the logic of governance smart contracts through problem-solving.

### Registration, Submission, and Duration
Registrations are now open. The tasks will go live on August 8, and the submission deadline is August 18 at 23:59:59 (UTC+4).

To enter the challenge, register via the [@toncontests_bot](https://t.me/toncontests_bot) on Telegram. The bot will assist you throughout the registration process and send you notifications with the latest updates, such as the contest start or the tasks. The bot will also guide you on submitting your entry as a legitimate participant.

**All entries must be submitted via GitHub, and your account must be at least a month old.**

For comprehensive instructions on submitting your entries, you can also refer to the official GitHub repository with the challenge tasks, which the bot will provide you on the first day of the contest.

### **Scoring System & Prize Distribution**

Winners of the contest will receive prizes denominated in Toncoin, the native cryptocurrency of the TON blockchain, which is also used as a resource for contract execution.

The scoring system is simple. **For each solved problem, the participant can earn a maximum of 6 points:** 

- Successful solution of the problem = 5 points
- If the solution is solved with no gas spent = 1 extra point

#### Prizes: 
1. 10,000 TON - The top 15% of participants
2. 10,000 TON - The middle 30% of participants
3. 10,000 TON - The bottom 55% of participants 

The pool of 10,000 TON will be split equally between all participants in the corresponding cohorts. In total, we will award 30,000 TON.*

*Please note that the total prize may vary depending on the number of participants.

<button href="https://t.me/toncontests_bot" passutmsource="true">
  Register Now!
</button >

TON Smart Challenge #4: Join to Win a share of 30,000 TON! 

As we delve into the digital age, Southeast Asia (SEA) is making a compelling case for itself as a hotbed for blockchain. With its rich blend of rapid economic growth, tech-savvy demographics, and burgeoning developer activity, countries like Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia are shaping the future of blockchain and its applications. 

TON recognizes and aims to harness this potential, laying the groundwork for SEA's decentralized and interconnected future.

## Singapore: The Blockchain Hub of SEA
A hub for technological innovation, Singapore stands as a global powerhouse in the blockchain and cryptocurrency sector. This city-state houses a vibrant ecosystem of over 400 blockchain-related startups, mainly due to its well-defined regulatory framework.

Investments in these Singapore-based companies surged in 2021, with nearly a 15-fold increase reaching a staggering $1.48 billion. The city-state led the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in blockchain research publications in 2020 and was ranked as the top crypto economy globally by the end of 2021. 

This thriving landscape has been cultivated through governmental initiatives and foreign direct investment. Notably, the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) has actively collaborated with private blockchain companies on projects such as Project Guardian, Project Ubin, and Dunbar. MAS has also introduced a sandbox regulatory program to facilitate further growth in the sector, providing a conducive environment for Web3 businesses.

With a firm grip on the digital future, Singapore has embraced the concept of the Metaverse, promoting the idea of legal transactions and even marriages within it. Additionally, Singapore shares a 6% registration rate among all crypto funds with Hong Kong and Switzerland.

## Thailand: An Emerging Powerhouse
Not far behind is Thailand, swiftly becoming a significant player in the blockchain arena. Its digital assets market has grown significantly, as evidenced by its population's increased interest and involvement. In 2022, 920,000 to 1.2% of the total population visited the CoinMarketCap website every month, trailing only slightly behind the United States regarding visits relative to the population.

Notably, Thailand's leading digital asset exchanges, such as Bitkub, Bitazza, Zipmex, and Satang Pro, had a total trading volume of around USD 37.94 billion in 2022. Bitkub led the way, holding a substantial 75.4% market share.

Moreover, the crypto industry's rapid expansion in Thailand is evident in the over 2.91 million user accounts on Thai Digital Asset Exchanges, which account for 4.14% of the total population. The growth in crypto accounts is on par with the 47-year-old Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET), which has approximately 3.4 million accounts.

However, it's not all smooth sailing. As the crypto market entered a bearish phase in Q2 2022, the number of active users declined by 60%. Similarly, the usage rate of PancakeSwap DEX dropped significantly, while Uniswap saw a gradual increase despite the market downturn.
In terms of regulation, digital assets, and related businesses in Thailand operate under the Emergency Decree on Digital Asset Businesses, B.E. 2561. The Decree aims to encourage technological innovation, offer a variety of fundraising instruments, protect investors, and ensure fairness in the digital assets market. A revision to this Decree is anticipated in 2023 to better align with the rapid development of digital assets.

The SEC is revising the Decree to adapt to the changing risk landscape amid growing global regulatory awareness. Following Singapore's model, the amendment also aims to foster the adoption of Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) in businesses, signaling potentially more favorable regulations for business operations and technology development.

## Vietnam: A Beacon for Software Engineers
The landscape of Vietnam, traditionally a powerhouse in manufacturing and agriculture, is transforming as the country emerges as a key player in software engineering and blockchain development. Capitalizing on its young, tech-savvy, and well-educated population, Vietnam is witnessing a surge in blockchain specialists.

Projections indicate a robust double-digit growth in the country's blockchain market between 2023-2027. This upswing is attributed to an increased understanding of cryptocurrency benefits, digital transformation across diverse sectors, and a surge in venture capital funding. Blockchain's potential to enhance financial transaction transparency, underpinning secure online transactions and smart contracts, and bolstering advanced cybersecurity measures in the banking sector is widely recognized.

Vietnam's push for smart cities in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Danang, Binh Duong, and Nha Trang is fueling blockchain adoption, a crucial technology in these ambitious urban development projects. With the merging of technologies such as 5G, facial recognition, and blockchain, the country's blockchain market is seeing significant growth. The intensifying demand for 5G from key sectors—healthcare, energy, transportation, and manufacturing—is especially notable as these industries form the backbone of smart city development.

The Vietnamese government is championing cashless technology as part of its initiative to diminish the volume of cash transactions, enhancing transaction record transparency and efficiency. Collaborating with Alliex, a South Korean payment service provider, the State Bank of Vietnam has forged a network that facilitates cashless transactions. This is a stepping stone towards wider adoption of fintech technology in Vietnam, with Blockchain expected to be a critical part of future technological upgrades. To guide this process, state agencies are formulating a roadmap for the effective use and application of Blockchain technology.

## Indonesia: Embracing Blockchain Innovation
Lastly, Indonesia, SEA's largest economy, is not one to miss out on the blockchain revolution. The country is experiencing a surge in developer activity and market volume in the blockchain sector. Indonesia's tech-savvy population is quickly adopting digital assets, as reflected in the surge of local blockchain startups.

According to recent studies, in the past half-decade, the number of cryptocurrency traders in the country has surpassed stock market investors, revealing the fast-paced growth of this sector.

Given that over sixty-six percent of Indonesians remain unbanked, the potential for expansion is substantial as blockchain businesses proliferate across the country. With an estimated 4 million of Indonesia's residents being holders of BTC or other cryptocurrencies by 2020, there has since been an influx of 2.5 million new investors, marking an increase of 62%.

Regulatory clarity from the government has been a significant driver of this expansion. The Indonesian government is actively encouraging a conducive environment for the burgeoning cryptocurrency industry, focusing on counteracting fraudulent transactions. Cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Dogecoin are legally recognized assets and commodities, though they cannot be used as a payment method yet.

The country's demographics also present an appealing opportunity for cryptocurrency growth. The age statistics reveal a promising future, with the majority of the estimated 7.7 million active cryptocurrency traders or investors falling between the ages of 18 and 34, including many college students. This young demographic of digital asset investors suggests the potential for massive growth in the sector.

ICN, a leading cryptocurrency multimedia company, has significantly influenced the recent surge in Indonesia's cryptocurrency sphere. The company, having collaborated with numerous key figures in the local and international scene, specializes in user acquisitions and intelligent campaigns. Other important entities include the cryptocurrency exchange Indodax and the trading platform Pintu, both of which have contributed substantially to the burgeoning cryptocurrency landscape in Indonesia.

Recognizing the potential, the Indonesian government has taken steps to regulate the use of digital assets, creating a safer environment for blockchain projects. As such, the country holds enormous potential for user growth within the web3 landscape, presenting exciting opportunities for blockchain enterprises. 

## Conclusion
SEA is quickly emerging as a dynamic and critical region in the global blockchain landscape. With the high activity of software developers, progressive regulatory frameworks, and vast potential for user growth, the region presents a promising frontier for blockchain projects like TON. 

By tapping into SEA's robust blockchain ecosystem, we are excited to contribute and help shape the future of decentralized technologies in this vibrant region. In the spirit of transparency and collaboration that defines blockchain technology, we encourage and invite all stakeholders - developers, governments, and users - to join us on this exciting journey. Together, we can unlock the transformative potential of blockchain and craft a new digital future for SEA.


Exploring Blockchain Activity in the SEA Region from TON’s Perspective

[According to Statista](https://www.statista.com/statistics/793628/worldwide-developer-survey-most-used-languages/), Python is the 3rd most popular programming language in the world, with over 49% of developers in 2023 using Python. With this in mind, and knowing our goal of building the world’s most used blockchain ecosystem, we can not afford to overlook Python’s importance and potential in building The Open Network (TON). 

Although the [Tact programming language lies at the core of TON](https://blog.ton.org/why-tact-is-ton-s-next-big-breakthrough), our community continuously develops new Python libraries to allow Python developers to contribute to the growth of the TON Ecosystem. 

In this article, we’ll share the most popular Python libraries you can leverage on TON. Please note that some of these libraries are still being developed by their authors but regardless provide a vault of precious information, while others might be abandoned. 

Before you start, we recommend reading our [article on setting up a development environment on TON](https://blog.ton.org/setting-up-a-ton-development-environment). 

## Python Libraries for The Open Network
We will not list out the libraries in any particular order of how they should be used, so feel free to scroll through to find what you’re looking for. 

### ADNL Transport
Abstract Datagram Network Layer (ADNL) is the cornerstone of TON. This decentralized network protocol built atop UDP in the current IPv4 framework, set to transition to IPv6 in the future, facilitates swift and lightweight data transfers. You have an option to switch to the more reliable TCP if UDP becomes inaccessible. ADNL prioritizes speed and direct peer interactions over guaranteed delivery. You can find more info in the ADNL Protocol documentation

- **[Pythoniq by Yungwine](https://github.com/yungwine/pytoniq)** – A Python SDK for the TON Blockchain that extends [pytoniq-core](https://github.com/yungwine/pytoniq-core) with native LiteClient and ADNL over UDP, DHT, and RLDP (in the future). It is considered by many as the flagship Python library for TON.

- **[mytonlib by Igroman787](https://github.com/igroman787/mytonlib)** – Another excellent native library for working with The Open Network without using libtonlibjson.so. As it is a native library, the speed is slightly throttled. This library was written based on the TON Deep by xssnick. 

### TonLib Wrapper
TonLib Wrapper is a library that allows you to interact with TON directly via the ADNL protocol without using any HTTP API. It is based on tonlibjson, which is a JSON interface to tonlib, a library that implements TON’s lite client functionality. 

There are different TonLib Wrappers for different programming languages, such as Python, .NET, and JavaScript.

- **[PyTONLib](https://github.com/toncenter/pytonlib)** – This is a standalone Python library based on libtonlibjson. The functionality is similar to the ton-http-api, but with a few restrictions - a client can connect to only one LiteServer; a client is asynchronous; no requests cache.

### HTTP API or TonLib Wrapper (both supported)
The following libraries can be used with both TonLib Wrapper or directly with HTTP API; whichever you prefer. 

- **[TonTools by Yungwine](https://github.com/yungwine/TonTools)** – A high-level OOP library for Python that offers a ton of functionality, such as scanning custom contracts and running get methods, creating, deploying and scanning wallets, NFT collections scanning, scanning of Jettons and Jetton wallets, transaction scanning in raw and user-friendly forms, and much more. 

- **[TONsdk by sasha1618 (tonfactory), Yungwine, Psylopunk](https://github.com/tonfactory/tonsdk)**– This low-level library contains a lot of useful information, but the code is unfinished and messy. Unfortunately, this library seems to be no longer under development, and it is now abandoned. 

### TON C++ Wrapper

- **[Tonpy by Disintar](https://github.com/disintar/tonpy)** – A Python package that provides data structures and API to interact with TON. Tonpy is separated into two packages: [C++ bindings](https://github.com/disintar/ton/tree/master/tvm-python) and the [main package](https://github.com/disintar/tonpy) that takes pre-built binaries compiled by workflow and creates a complete Python package with some Python code on top of C++ bindings.

### TON Connect
TON Connect is a communication protocol between wallets and apps in the TON ecosystem. Wallets do not need to build walled-garden ecosystems themselves, while the apps do not need to take the risk of holding end users’ accounts. TON Connect aims to offer a seamless user experience between the wallets and the apps. Read our recent article, [TON Connect – The Future Without Passwords](https://blog.ton.org/ton-connect-the-future-without-passwords), to better understand the concept and its benefits. [Click here](https://github.com/ton-connect) for the TON Connect Github repo. 

- **[PyTon Connect by XaBbl4](https://github.com/XaBbl4/pytonconnect)** – A Python SDK for TON Connect 2.0. This library is the analog of the [@tonconnect/sdk library](https://github.com/ton-connect/sdk/tree/main/packages/sdk), and you can use it to connect your app to TON wallets via the TON Connect protocol. You can find more details and the protocol specification in the [docs](https://github.com/ton-connect/docs).

- **[TON Connect for Python by ClickoTON Foundation](https://github.com/ClickoTON-Foundation/tonconnect)** – Another library for connecting TON Connect to Python apps. The library contains 34 commits and seems to be under active development, with the last activity just over two weeks ago. 

### Developments for TON on Python
Here, you can find a few more handy tools to help you with Python on TON. 

- **[TON Indexer](https://github.com/toncenter/ton-indexer)** - Helps you store blocks, transactions, and messages in the Postgres database and provides a convenient API.

- **[MyTonCtrl](https://github.com/ton-blockchain/mytonctrl)** – A console application that is a convenient wrapper for fift, lite-client, and validator-engine-console. It has been specifically developed to streamline wallet, domain, and validator management tasks on the Linux operating system.

- **[HTTP API for The Open Network](https://github.com/toncenter/ton-http-api)** – Since TON nodes use their own ADNL binary transport protocol, an intermediate service is needed for an HTTP connection. TON HTTP API is such an intermediate service; receiving requests via HTTP, it accesses the lite servers of the TON network using tonlibjson. You can use the ready-made [toncenter.com](https://toncenter.com/) service or start your own instance.

### Deprecated Libraries
While we do not recommend using these libraries as they’re now obsolete and abandoned, you can still search through them to see if there is any valuable information. 

- **[TVM Value Types](https://github.com/toncenter/tvm_valuetypes)** – Now replaced by Pythoniq, this library works with basic primitives of TON (Cell, HashMap). The library is a collection of utilities that work with seven value types of TON virtual machine - Integer, Cell, Tuple, Null, Slice, Builder, and Continuation.

- **[Pytonlib by Psylopunk](https://github.com/psylopunk/pytonlib)** - Now completely abandoned, this library allows you to work with the TON API from Python. It offers a range of functionalities such as creating and importing wallets, getting wallet balances and transactions, transferring coins, executing methods of smart contracts, and transferring NFTs.

### Others
Last but not least, a library that doesn’t fit any of the above-mentioned categories but still packs a collection of useful features. 

- **[Rift ](https://github.com/sky-ring/rift)**– A full-stack development framework for TON that makes it easy for developers to use Python to develop, test, and deploy smart contracts on TON. With Rift, you can leverage the simplicity and versatility of Python to build and interact with TON without having to learn the complexities of FunC or Fift. For examples of how Rift simplifies these processes, [visit Rift's website](https://rift.skyring.io/).



Essential Libraries and Tools for Python on TON

Tact is a new programming language designed for creating smart contracts on the TON blockchain. You might wonder why we would complicate TON development by using a completely new language but worry not. There are multiple unique benefits to Tact, and in this article, we will explain why Tact should be your next programming language to learn. 

At the end of this article, we'll share with you a free Tact course by Vladimir Alefman to jumpstart your career in blockchain development. So continue reading. 

## **Begin Your Blockchain Development Journey With Tact**
Many experienced developers wonder if they should venture into the field of blockchain development, fearing they might not be able to compete with the veterans of the cryptocurrency world. 

However, the TON blockchain and Tact are emerging technologies, presenting numerous yet-to-be-explored opportunities. The novelty of TON and its unique language, Tact, positions this project as an ideal platform for developers beginning their blockchain journey. As this technology evolves, all developers are on a level playing field. Consequently, newcomers stand a chance to be among the pioneering specialists in Tact and TON development.

With robust community support, beginners receive ample assistance to kickstart their endeavors in this domain. The [Tact by Example website](https://tact-by-example.org/all) offers a wealth of educational content and code samples for an in-depth understanding of the Tact language.

### **Principles of Tact Language Development**
One of the key points in Tact's development is the aim to make it accessible to a broad audience of developers. Therefore, it is designed to be similar to popular programming languages such as JavaScript, Python, and Solidity. This significantly simplifies learning and understanding the language, especially for newcomers. 

- **Expandability and Modularity** - 
One of the key advantages of Tact is its ability to support the principles of [Message-Oriented Programming (MOP)](https://tinycode2.medium.com/message-orientation-bb2eff089b01), making it ideal for creating modular and expandable smart contracts. Developers can create contracts that easily interact with each other through message passing, thereby simplifying the integration and interaction of different contracts.

- **Asynchrony** - 
Tact supports [asynchronous messages](https://telegra.ph/Its-time-to-try-something-new-Asynchronous-smart-contracts-03-25), which can significantly improve the performance of smart contracts. Contracts can run in parallel and do not need to wait for other contracts to complete. This speeds up operations and enhances system responsiveness.

- **Improved Interaction** - 
The application of MOP also simplifies the [interaction between smart contracts](https://tact-by-example.org/03-messages-between-contracts) and external systems, such as applications or other blockchains. With standardized messages, developers can easily integrate their contracts with various services and platforms.

- **Higher Level of Abstraction** - 
The use of MOP in Tact allows developers to focus on the business logic of contracts rather than the low-level details of their implementation. This simplifies the development process and enables the creation of functional and efficient contracts more quickly. [Here is an example](https://tact-by-example.org/06-unbounded-maps) of a simple token on Tact.


- **Enhanced Security** - 
With MOP principles, developers can create more reliable and secure smart contracts. Interaction between contracts becomes more controlled and isolated, reducing security risks and making the system more resistant to attacks.

## **Blueprint - A Powerful Framework for Tact**
One of the advantages of using the Tact programming language is the availability of the [Blueprint framework](https://docs.ton.org/develop/smart-contracts/sdk/javascript), which provides a complete set of tools for smart contract development. This framework offers features for building, testing, and deploying contracts in the test and main TON networks. 

The Blueprint development environment also facilitates interaction with cryptocurrency wallets. Developers can link their wallet to the development environment and directly send transactions to deploy contracts from their wallet. This makes the contract development and deployment process more flexible and convenient. 

Thanks to Blueprint, developers can easily manage all stages of the smart contract lifecycle, from development and testing to deployment and management of contracts in a production environment. This ensures higher productivity and simplifies working with smart contracts on the TON blockchain.

## **Real-World Use Cases of Tact on the TON Blockchain**
To showcase the practicality and usability of Tact, we want to share with you a few actual use cases developed on TON. 

**[1. Tact Wallet Contract:](https://github.com/tact-lang/contract-wallet)** As one of the most popular wallets on the TON platform, it supports gasless transactions, allowing users to save on fees. Additionally, other contracts can perform operations on behalf of the wallet, expanding the possibilities for interaction and integration. This wallet contract can scale the number of operations in a single transaction, enabling high scalability and efficiency.

**[2. Tact Payouts Contract:](https://github.com/tact-lang/contract-payouts)** A perfect solution for on-chain payouts. The contract generates a list of text tickets for each address entitled to a payout, and the tickets are signed transactions serialized as comments to be parsed by the smart contract.

**[3. TON VOTE Contracts:](https://github.com/orbs-network/ton-vote-contracts/tree/main)** These are smart contracts for the ton.vote platform. These contracts provide functionality for voting on the blockchain, ensuring transparency and decentralization of the process.

**[4. Simple DNS Contract:](https://github.com/tact-lang/contract-dns-simple)** This contract allows you to manage DNS records in a simple way. It also allows burning fuses to disallow certain modifications of records.

**[5. NFT Standard:](https://github.com/howardpen9/nft-template-in-tact)** A basic implementation of the NFT standard that includes the practical application of TEP-62 and TEP-66. This standard was introduced by a community contributor and became the basis for creating unique digital assets on the TON blockchain.

These examples demonstrate the potential of the Tact language in creating beneficial use cases on the TON blockchain while benefiting the security, transparency, and decentralization of the ecosystem.


## **Integration with Telegram Messenger**
Today, over 800 million users worldwide use Telegram messenger for various purposes that go beyond just the regular messenger functionality. At TON Foundation, one of our goals is to benefit from Telegram's massive audience and leverage it to further TON adoption and new use cases, and our recently launched [tApps Center](https://www.tapps.center/) is a step forward in this direction. With tApps Center, developers can promote their bots, apps, and games integrated with Telegram to larger audiences in a one-stop store filled with all the interesting projects. To learn more about the tApps Center, [click here](https://blog.ton.org/ton-ecosystem-evolved-introducing-telegram-apps-center-t-apps-center). 

Tact and TON promise to bring a new era to the internet, where everyone can be free, independent, and control their data.
Don't miss your chance to be part of this revolution. Learn Tact, create your smart contracts and applications, and join the creation of a new decentralized internet with TON and Telegram!

## Your Free Tact Course by Vladimir Alefman
Embark on your blockchain development journey with Tact through Vladimir Alefman's free course on YouTube. Perfect for novices and seasoned developers alike, this tutorial paves the way for mastering Tact and developing your own smart contracts on TON. Dive in now by selecting your preferred language: [English](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaiBZhZWqYeeQMUeCev18ng) or [Russian](https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOIvUFGfwP93tZI_WnaLyJsZlskU4ao92). 


Why Tact is TON's Next Big Breakthrough 

Web3 quickly became the new buzzword of the crypto communities, but even after years of development, it’s still distant from its ultimate goal. We believe there are multiple reasons for this, but maybe the most significant is a lack of appropriate infrastructure. For Web3 to scale and develop products users want to use, it needs more grounded, long-term incentives beyond tokenized memes or a collective, albeit superficial, intent on seeing the “number go up.” 

Although various blockchain infrastructures aim to solve these issues and improve the otherwise obfuscated UX and UI that prevent everyday people from using non-custodial solutions, another strategy is for developers to create and build tools or services that enhance platforms with a thriving user ecosystem. One such example is [The Open Network (TON)](https://ton.org/).

This article will highlight why you should launch your web3 project on The Open Network. 

## **What’s TON?**
In late 2018, the Durov brothers (founders of Telegram) introduced the first version of the TON whitepaper. While Telegram had to stop the active development of TON in 2020 due to regulatory issues, an open-source community kept the network alive, supporting new projects and ensuring the fruition of Telegram's original vision. Now TON, rebranded as The Open Network, operates a mainnet that offers swift, cost-effective, and environment-friendly transactions.

TON is a fully decentralized Layer 1 blockchain governed by TON Validators and TON Community Vote. At the time of writing, the ecosystem hosts over [530 dApps](https://ton.app) ranging from wallets to NFTs, explorers, bridges, and exchanges, with a [total value locked (TVL) of around $18M](https://defillama.com/chain/TON?tvl=true). 


## **Why TON?**
While it may be challenging to compete with Bitcoin’s and Ethereum’s ever-alluring liquidity and communities - these blockchains, while (still) in their nascent state, are not without issues.

Coined by Vitalik Buterin, [the blockchain trilemma](https://medium.com/certik/the-blockchain-trilemma-decentralized-scalable-and-secure-e9d8c41a87b3) describes a challenge of Layer 1 networks to simultaneously balance all core aspects of security, scalability, and efficiency. A tradeoff has to be made (at least upon launch). With Bitcoin, for example, we can see that Proof of Work (PoW) helps provide strong security and more decentralization, but [its transactions are slower and can get expensive](https://cointelegraph.com/news/bitcoin-under-siege-by-brc-20-coins-with-soaring-fees-claims-analyst). And Ethereum, while recently migrating to Proof-of-Stake and hosting more Layer 2s like Optimism and Arbitrum, still suffers from high gas fees during periods of network congestion. 

In short, hardly any chain, Layer 1 or 2, can compete with traditional banking and finance in their current state, not to mention a range of balanced, pragmatic incentives like privacy and security.

### **Flexible & shardable PoS architecture**
As with Solana and Ethereum, TON uses Proof of Stake consensus. However, TON’s key design and implementations allow it to come out ahead on performance and versatility. With its Turing complete smart contracts, one example is its asynchronous blockchain which introduces ideas like Lamport time and unconventional ordering schemes. 

[TON’s lightning-fast](https://medium.com/ton-community/tons-hypercube-routing-system-9d6dc486460c), low-cost transactions are supported by the chain’s flexible and shardable architecture. This architecture allows it to scale easily without losing performance. Dynamic sharding involves initially developed individual shards with their own purpose, which can operate simultaneously and prevent large backlogs. TON’s block time is 5 seconds, with a time-to-finality of under 6 seconds.
 
**The existing infrastructure is split into two main parts:**

- **Masterchain** - is responsible for handling all of the important and vital data for the protocol, including the parameters as well as the current values. This includes all of the details, such as the addresses of the validators, as well as the coin stake quantities for validations. Furthermore, it features all of the data of the various Workchains and Shardchains. In a multi-layered blockchain, the masterchain is the most important; a single point of truth.  
- **Workchain**- secondary chains that connect to the masterchain. It contains all of the transaction information, as well as the various smart contracts which are recorded. However, each Workchain can have different rules. This means that addresses with different formats, different transaction formats, as well as different Virtual Machines (VMs) are dedicated to specific smart contracts. It is due to this that the TON blockchain can be called heterogeneous.

### Expanded use cases and benefits
TON Foundation, a DAO operated by TON's core community, offers various benefits to projects in the TON ecosystem. These include support for developers through events and hackathons, a liquidity incentive program for DeFi projects, and more.

- **According to a [recent developer report](https://www.developerreport.com/ecosystems/ton)**, there has been an 8% increase in monthly active developers and a 50% annual rise in contributors to open-source TON-related repositories on GitHub. This points to a continually growing community that fosters collaboration and innovation.

- **Unveiling of [TON Connect 2.0](https://ton.org/docs/develop/dapps/ton-connect/):** The release of TON Connect 2.0 marked a significant milestone, offering users an intuitive way to connect to their favorite wallets and applications. Supported by [Tonkeeper ](https://tonkeeper.com/)wallet and [OpenMask](https://www.openmask.app/), it has already been embraced by over 14 services - all of which help create a better user experience. 

- **Improved trust and reliability through [TON Verifier](https://verifier.ton.org/):** TON Verifier, a smart contract checker created by the Orbs team, is now available for community members and allows developers to check the integrity of their contracts before deployment. 

- **[Blueprint ](https://github.com/ton-community/blueprint)- A Developer's Ally:** TON introduced Blueprint, a simple environment designed to assist developers in writing, testing, and deploying smart contracts. Blueprint streamlines the entire process, making it easier for engineers to build on TON.

- **[Sandbox](https://github.com/ton-community/sandbox) Developer Toolkit:** This recent addition extends TON's functionality, catering to varied use cases from businesses to governments. The Sandbox toolkit empowers mainstream smart contract development, paving the way for broader adoption.

- **Tact Language Beta - Embracing the Future:** The Tact programming language, supported by Steve Korshakov and the Tact community, successfully released its Beta version. The simple [documentation ](http://docs.tact-lang.org/)encourages the community to learn and provide feedback, fostering a more robust programming environment.

- **Engagement and Support for Developers:** In collaboration with DoraHacks, TON Foundation introduced a 3-month [online hackathon with a generous $300,000 prize pool](https://dorahacks.io/hackathon/hack-a-tonx/detail). TON also organized the [DoraHacks Onboarding Week](https://www.youtube.com/@DoraHacksGlobal/streams) to encourage participation, featuring live streams for beginners.

- **TON Hubs Go International:** The TON community also kick-started international hubs in [Lisbon](https://t.me/tonlisbonhub), [Bangkok](https://t.me/tonhubbkk), Hyderabad ([India](https://t.me/tondevs_in)), and [Barcelona](https://t.me/tonbcnhub), allowing the sharing of ideas and accelerating project development. More hubs are expected to pop up worldwide, inviting those interested in contributing to this exciting endeavor.
- **[DeFi Liquidity Incentive Program:](https://blog.ton.org/announcing-the-new-de-fi-liquidity-incentive-program-for-ton-ecosystem)** A progressive, milestone-based approach to funding projects. The program aims to achieve organic sustainability within the DeFi space inside the TON Ecosystem.

### **Symbiotic Relationship Between Web2 and Web3**
To close on a final reason to deploy with TON, one must recognize the ecosystem that is Telegram itself. Deploying your Web3 project on TON offers the advantage of Telegram's massive user base, with over 700 million monthly active users. This integration provides a fertile environment for decentralized apps to thrive, similar to how platforms like Apple's app store and Steam support developers.

To better understand its importance, consider the following analogy: 
Symbiotic relationships are fundamental in nature, whether it's the mutualism between clownfish and anemones or the parasitic nature of viruses. These relationships are crucial in shaping the biodiversity of our planet and are key drivers of evolution. Through networking and cooperation, species in symbiotic relationships can enhance their survival capabilities beyond what they could achieve individually. This also applies to tech and Web3 in particular, where to thrive, the Web3 ecosystem must achieve symbiotic relationships between the different participants. 

These symbiotic relationships in tech promote collaboration and result in synergistic outcomes that benefit all participants, ultimately leading to advancements and improvements in the Web3 landscape. 

Overall, developers can benefit from access to the user base of major social networks such as Telegram, while not having to compromise on incentives or values to build a robust future for their decentralized apps.This integration provides an optimal environment for a decentralized world to flourish, underlining why TON is a strategic choice for developers seeking to deploy their projects on an open network.

### Ready to start building on TON? [Click here. ](https://ton.org/en/dev)

Why You Should Launch Your Web3 Project on The Open Network (TON)

## Introduction
In the evolving landscape of finance and cryptocurrencies, how we store, manage, and access our assets has become highly important. At the heart of this debate lies the distinction between custodial and non-custodial wallets. While both models offer unique advantages, they also come with challenges, which can influence security, management, and your experience using these solutions. 

This article delves deep into these two paradigms, untangling their definitions, the pros and cons of each, and their usability in various scenarios. 

Whether you're a seasoned investor, a crypto newcomer, or simply curious, understanding the differences between custodial and non-custodial systems can empower you to make more informed choices in an increasingly digitized world.

## Definition of Custodial and Non-Custodial Wallets
### Custodial
A custodial solution in cryptocurrencies refers to a wallet or service where a third party, typically a financial institution or an exchange, holds and manages your private keys.

With custodial wallets and services, you transfer your cryptocurrencies to an address provided by the custody provider. The platform then assumes responsibility for your assets' safekeeping, management, and security.

The best examples of custodial services are well-known centralized exchanges we all use, like Coinbase or Binance. When you deposit your crypto into your exchange account, the exchange holds the funds for you, making it a custodial solution. You don't have direct access to their private keys in such platforms; instead, they rely on the platform's security measures and infrastructure. This can be compared to the regular banks as we know them. Once you deposit your funds into a bank, they're no longer under your full control.

### Non-custodial
If you've been in crypto for some time, you've definitely heard the phrase, *"Not your keys, not your coins."* With non-custodial wallets and services, you own your private keys and, by extension, your crypto assets. The responsibility of asset security, safekeeping, and management lies entirely on your shoulders.

With non-custodial services, you typically store your assets in wallets with exclusive access to your private keys and assets. These wallets allow you, and no one else, to send, receive, and manage your cryptocurrencies without intermediaries or third-party platforms.

Examples of non-custodial services are hardware wallets like Ledger and Trezor or software wallets like [Tonkeeper ](https://tonkeeper.com/)and Trust Wallet. When you store your cryptocurrency in one of these wallets, you maintain full control over your private keys and, thus, your assets. No third party can move or manage your funds without direct authorization (i.e., using your private key).

## Pros and Cons
Now that you understand the concept of custodial vs. non-custodial services let's look at the pros and cons of these two options to understand better which solution is the right one for you. 

### Custodial
#### Pros:

- **Security:** Centralized custodial platforms often invest heavily in security infrastructure to protect vast amounts of assets. For many users, especially those not tech-savvy, this can provide a higher level of security than they might achieve on their own.

- **Ease of Use:** For newcomers to the cryptocurrency space, custodial solutions often provide a more intuitive interface and user experience. These platforms handle complex processes behind the scenes, offering users simplicity in trading, withdrawing, and depositing.

- **Customer Support:** With custodial services, you typically have access to customer support teams that can assist with issues ranging from lost passwords to transaction issues.

- **Frequent Updates and Features:** Many custodial platforms frequently update their systems with new features, enhanced user interfaces, and additional functionalities catering to your needs.

#### Cons:

- **Centralization:** Being centralized entities,  custodials such as exchanges become attractive targets for hackers. Moreover, centralization means a single point of failure, which can be risky.

- **Limited Control:** You do not have direct control over your assets in custodial solutions. The platform manages the funds, and you need to trust that platform's integrity.

- **Censorship and Restrictions:** Custodial platforms can, under certain conditions, freeze accounts or withhold funds, either due to governmental requests, suspicious activity, or platform policies.

- **Privacy Concerns:** Since your identity is often tied to your accounts on centralized platforms, your transaction history and balances might be more exposed than in non-custodial solutions.

### Non-custodial
#### Pros:

- **Full Control:** You have sole control over your assets. No intermediary can access or manage your funds without your private key or device where they're stored.

- **Censorship-Resistant:** Without a centralized authority overseeing transactions, there's less risk of funds being frozen or censored. 

- **Enhanced Privacy:** Since there's no central entity logging all activities, non-custodial solutions offer more privacy. While most blockchain transactions are public, the identity tied to those transactions can remain pseudonymous.

- **No Intermediary Risks:** Reduced concerns about the platform going offline, getting hacked, or facing regulatory issues that could affect your assets.

#### Cons:

- **Personal Responsibility:** The responsibility for security lies entirely on your shoulders. If you lose access to your private keys, you lose access to your assets.

- **Learning Curve:** Non-custodial solutions, especially for complete beginners, might be challenging to navigate. Understanding seed phrases, private keys, blockchain mechanics, and security is essential.

- **Limited Customer Support:** If a mistake occurs, such as sending funds to the wrong address, there's typically no way to retrieve your assets, and there's limited if any, support to help in such situations.

- **Potential for Loss:** Mismanagement, forgetting credentials, or falling for scams can lead to irreversible loss of assets. With non-custodial wallets, the weakest link is you and the way you store and protect your private keys and recovery seed.


As a decentralized and censorship-resistant platform, we strongly support non-custodial solutions. So, if you've decided to give non-custodial wallets a try, here are some tips before you jump into becoming an autonomous and self-sovereign crypto HODLer. 

## Security Tips for Non-Custodial Wallets

- **Regular Backups:** Ensure you back up your wallet regularly and store those backups in multiple secure places.

- **Use Hardware Wallets:** When dealing with a significant amount of cryptocurrency, consider investing in a hardware wallet. These devices store private keys offline, making them immune to online hacks.

- **Double-check Addresses:** Before sending funds, always double-check the recipient's address. Malware can change copied addresses, so it's crucial to be vigilant. Many people are used to check just a first and last few characters of the address, but this is not sufficient as there are now methods that can fool you with generating a malicious address containing these characters. Always check the full address! (twice)

- **Update Regularly:** Make sure that your wallet software is up to date. Developers regularly release security updates, so keeping your software updated is important.

## Tips on storing and protecting your private keys and recovery seed

- **Physical Security:** Write down your recovery seed on a piece of paper and store it in a secure location, such as a safe or safety deposit box. If you can afford it, explore recovery seed backups made of steel that are resistant to the elements of nature and time, such as CryptoSteel or CryptoTag. 

- **Avoid Digital Copies:** Taking photos or screenshots of your seed phrase can expose you to online threats, especially if these digital copies are stored on devices connected to the internet. Write them down or record them on a physical seed backup.

- **Use Tamper-Evident Bags:** Place your written recovery seed in a tamper-evident bag. This will help you know if someone has attempted to access it.

- **Multiple Copies:** Consider creating multiple copies of your recovery seed and storing them in various secure locations. This ensures that if one copy is lost or damaged, you have backups. You can also split the seed (words) into multiple places to increase the security even more. 

- **Keep it Secret:** Your recovery seed is the ultimate backup of your funds. Sharing it or exposing it can lead to loss of funds. Ensure that only trusted individuals know of its location and contents.

As we usher in a future where digital assets become increasingly mainstream, understanding the nuances of storage solutions becomes essential. With knowledge and careful measures, you can ensure that your HODLings remain both secure and accessible.


## Conclusion
In the rapidly evolving world of cryptocurrencies, the choice between custodial and non-custodial solutions goes beyond mere preference—it's a decision that weighs the scales of convenience against autonomy. 

As we've seen, each approach has its merits and pitfalls, and the right choice often depends on your knowledge and comfort with the technology, desired level of control, and risk tolerance. With the overarching theme of decentralization driving the world of digital assets, non-custodial solutions resonate deeply with the ethos of cryptocurrency. Yet, as with all powerful tools, they come with significant responsibilities.

Do not feel pressured into using non-custodial wallets if you prefer to use custodial services. Ultimately, it is your choice, and the stakes are high. No one has the right to tell you how to protect your hard-earned assets and private data. 

Always do your own research, consult multiple sources, and review your situation to figure out which of the two suits your needs. 

**Stay vigilant and be safe!**


Explaining the Differences Between Custodial and Non-Custodial Wallets

*Disclaimer: This community content has been created by [TONRadar](https://tonradar.app/), an unaffiliated third-party project. [TONRadar ](https://twitter.com/tonradarapp)is a community-driven TON ecosystem aggregator that helps you explore dApps and projects running on TON.*

Welcome to the beginner's guide to The Open Network (TON), an innovative blockchain project that has garnered significant attention in the world of cryptocurrencies and decentralized systems. This article will look closely at TON and explore its key concepts, features, and potential impact on the blockchain landscape.

## What is TON?
[TON](https://ton.org/), short for The Open Network, is a blockchain-based decentralized computer network technology. Initially developed by the Telegram team, TON aimed to create a robust and scalable blockchain platform. It was launched in 2018 but faced a temporary halt before resuming its activities under the TON Foundation and rebranding from Telegram Open Network to The Open Network.

TON operates as a [Layer 1 blockchain](https://tonradar.app/blog/2023/05/31/blockchain-layers-you-should-know/), similar to other popular blockchain networks like Solana and Ethereum. It utilizes a [proof-of-stake (PoS)](https://blog.ton.org/the-ton-blockchain-is-based-on-pos-consensus) consensus mechanism, where nodes in the network become validators by staking [Toncoin](https://tonradar.app/blog/2023/05/03/toncoin-explained-everything-you-need-to-know-about-toncoin/). Validators are responsible for securing the network and validating transactions. As a reward for their participation, validators receive Toncoin.

The TON ecosystem is designed to meet the needs of millions of users, with a particular focus on serving regular users. It emphasizes efficiency, speed, and scalability, aiming to provide a user-friendly and accessible experience.

It's important to note that in May 2020, Telegram withdrew from the TON project following legal disputes with the US Securities and Exchange Commission. However, the technology and vision behind TON continue to shape the development of blockchain and decentralized networks.

## How TON Works
TON operates through a combination of unique architectural elements and consensus mechanisms to provide fast, scalable, and secure transaction processing. Let's explore how TON works at a high level.
### Architecture
TON is structured as a multi-layered network comprising the masterchain, workchains, and shardchains. The masterchain acts as the central coordinator and manages validator nodes, staked assets, and the synchronization of different components within the network. Workchains are independent blockchains supporting smart contracts and decentralized applications (DApps). Within each workchain, shardchains are implemented to enhance scalability and parallelize transaction processing.
### TON Virtual Machine (TVM)
The TON Virtual Machine (TVM) provides a secure and isolated environment for executing smart contracts on the network. It ensures contracts run consistently across all nodes and provides the necessary computational resources to execute complex operations. TVM plays a crucial role in enforcing the predefined rules and logic embedded within smart contracts.
### Consensus Mechanism
TON utilizes a Byzantine Fault Tolerant (BFT) consensus mechanism called the Block-Proof of Stake (BPoS) consensus. Validators, who hold and stake TON's native cryptocurrency, participate in block validation and consensus. The BPoS consensus ensures that a supermajority of honest validators is required for block confirmation, enhancing the network's security and resistance to malicious attacks.
### Sharding
Sharding is a key component of TON's scalability strategy. Each Workchain divides into multiple Shardchains, which process transactions in parallel. By distributing the transaction workload across multiple Shardchains, TON can achieve higher throughput and scalability. Shardchains maintain a subset of the global state, enabling efficient processing of transactions without requiring every node to process every transaction.
### Smart Contracts and dApps
Workchains within TON support smart contracts, which are self-executing agreements with predefined rules and conditions. Developers can build decentralized applications (DApps) on top of TON using smart contracts. These DApps can enable various functionalities, such as decentralized finance (DeFi), gaming, social media, and more. The flexible design of Workchains allows for customization and innovation in DApp development.
### Interoperability and Cross-Chain Communication
TON facilitates interoperability and cross-chain communication between different Workchains and Shardchains. This enables seamless asset transfers and transaction execution across various chains within the TON network. Interoperability opens up possibilities for collaboration between DApps and the exchange of assets and data, enhancing the overall ecosystem and user experience.
### Speed and Efficiency
TON is designed to process transactions with high speed and efficiency. The combination of sharding, parallel processing, and the BFT consensus mechanism allows for a high throughput of transactions, ensuring fast confirmation times. This speed and efficiency are critical for TON to support real-world applications and handle a large number of transactions while maintaining network integrity.
### Security and Decentralization
TON prioritizes security by employing robust consensus mechanisms, cryptographic techniques, and network validation. The decentralized nature of TON, with validator nodes distributed across the network, ensures resilience against attacks and censorship. The network's architecture and consensus mechanism enable a high degree of decentralization while maintaining the integrity and security of transactions and smart contracts.
By leveraging the power of decentralization, consensus mechanisms, sharding, smart contracts, and a dedicated virtual machine, TON aims to create a robust and scalable network capable of supporting a wide range of decentralized applications and services.
It's important to note that while the original TON project by Telegram faced challenges, other projects and communities have taken up the development and exploration of TON technology, building upon its principles to create innovative blockchain solutions.

## TON Services
### TON Wallets
[TON wallets](https://tonradar.app/blog/2023/06/03/wallets-explained-and-comparisons/) are digital wallets specifically designed for storing, managing, and transacting with the native cryptocurrency of the TON (The Open Network) ecosystem, known as Toncoin (TON). These wallets provide users with a secure and convenient way to interact with the TON blockchain and participate in various activities within the network.

Several types of TON wallets are available, including non-custodial and custodial wallets. Non-custodial or self-custody wallets give users complete control over their funds and private keys. This means that users are solely responsible for the security and management of their wallets and assets. On the other hand, there are custodial wallets managed by a third-party service provider who holds the users' funds and private keys on their behalf, offering convenience but potentially reducing the level of control.

One popular non-custodial TON wallet is [Tonkeeper](https://tonkeeper.com/). Tonkeeper provides users with a decentralized and secure way to store and manage their Toncoin holdings. It offers features such as an intuitive interface, support for interacting with decentralized TON applications, and the ability to buy, sell, and exchange Toncoin directly within the wallet.

Another notable non-custodial wallet is [Tonhub](https://tonhub.com/), developed by the TON Whales team. Tonhub stands out with its sleek design and additional features like Toncoin staking and the Token Builder, which allows users to create their own cryptocurrency based on TON. These features make Tonhub an attractive option for those looking to participate in the TON ecosystem actively.

[TON Wallet](https://wallet.ton.org/) suits users seeking a more straightforward wallet for basic coin transfers. With its simple design and limited functionality, TON Wallet focuses on providing a user-friendly experience for storing and sending Toncoin to other users.

If you prefer a custodial wallet, [@wallet](https://github.com/wallet) is an option worth considering. @wallet is integrated directly into the Telegram messaging app, providing a convenient and seamless way to manage your crypto assets without leaving the familiar Telegram interface. While custodial wallets may offer greater ease of use, it's important to note that users do not have direct control over their private keys and must rely on the custodian to secure their funds.

It's important to exercise caution and practice proper security measures when using any wallet. This includes downloading wallets from official and trusted sources, safeguarding your private keys or seed phrases, and regularly updating your wallet software to ensure you have the latest security features and bug fixes.
### TON Storage
TON Storage allows users to store data and information on the blockchain. It provides a decentralized storage solution similar to services like Dropbox but with the added advantage of private encryption using the user's wallet's private key.
### TON Sites
TON Sites allow users to launch web servers and make their websites available on the TON network. It enables website owners to have decentralized, secure, and reliable websites accessible via the TON network.
### TON WWW
TON WWW refers to the collection of web pages and services on the TON network. It includes websites accessible via the TON network and can be accessed through a TON crypto wallet and web browser. TON WWW utilizes TON Proxy and TON Sites to create a decentralized and secure browsing experience.
TON Proxy
TON Proxy is a technology that enables users to connect to the TON network. This service aims to combat censorship and provide easy access to decentralized applications (dApps). It is an entry point to access the TON network and allows browsing and interacting with TON Sites. You can set up TON Proxy in browsers or integrate it into TON wallet apps, allowing users to access TON Sites seamlessly.
### Smart Contracts
TON utilizes smart contracts for faster transaction processing, similar to many other blockchain networks. All smart contracts on the TON blockchain are executed by the TON Virtual Machine (TVM).
### TON DNS
TON DNS is a service designed to make crypto wallets, accounts, smart contracts, and other services more user-friendly. It aims to simplify the addressing and accessibility of various resources on the TON network.
### Ton Bridge
Ton Bridge facilitates the conversion of TON coins between the Binance Smart Chain, Ethereum, and The Open Network. It allows users to transfer TON tokens seamlessly between different blockchain networks.
## Conclusion
Despite facing challenges along the way, TON has played a significant role in inspiring innovation and driving the development of the blockchain industry, providing a platform for the growth and advancement of decentralized applications and services.


What is TON? — A Beginner’s Guide To The Open Network

Let’s explore the many wallets available in TON’s Ecosystem that enable our growing user base to keep their digital token holdings safe. Here, you will find a step-by-step guide on how to use a variety of wallets, including Tonkeeper, TON’s most popular wallet.

We will also review some non-custodial wallets, and the @wallet custodial service. If you are not familiar with the difference between these wallet types check out [**this post**](https://medium.com/ton-community/storing-toncoin-ton-b4ddab21b015).

Briefly, non-custodial wallets provide users with complete control of their cryptocurrency and prevent parties from seizing, blocking or freezing your account.

Contrastingly, custodial wallets store your coins with a custodian – similar to a bank account managed through a mobile app. Custodial services are generally considered less secure but more convenient and friendly for novice users.

**Let’s start!**

**@wallet**

This is the only custodial wallet in our list. @wallet, an independent entity operating in the TON ecosystem, is an extremely convenient and simple cryptocurrency wallet, which can be used directly from your Telegram app. With @wallet, you can save time and effort which would otherwise be spent understanding the complex process of creating a non-custodial wallet, reading whitepapers, etc. Moreover, @wallet eliminates the risk of forgetting your private keys. By being seamlessly integrated into a Web2 communication app, @wallet offers an easy onboarding experience to the world of Web3

@wallet is one of the core services in the TON Ecosystem, as it is particularly suitable for blockchain novices.

With @wallet, you can:

– Create an account in less than a minute without leaving your Telegram app.

– Effortlessly manage one’s crypto assets with an intuitive web interface, designed for seamless navigation and ease of use.

– Store, receive, and send Toncoin with a single click directly in a Telegram chat with friends and other users.

– Store, receive, and send Tether tokens USDT (TRC20), as well as exchange it for Toncoin (TON) and back directly within the messenger.

If you have never used crypto applications before, @wallet will probably be the easiest entry point into the blockchain world for you.

**Tonkeeper**

This is among the most popular non-custodial wallets in TON Ecosystem. At the end of the article, we have attached a short guide for installing and using Tonkeeper. 

- Decentralized browser: using Tonkeeper, you can interact with a variety of decentralized TON applications (for example, you can buy a TON NFT directly with your wallet).
- Fast app performance. 
- Intuitive interface. 
- Built-in options for buying, selling, and exchanging Toncoin. 
- Capability to store and transfer NFTs and altcoins based on TON.

**OpenMask**

If you have past experience with cryptocurrency, then you are probably familiar with Metamask, one of the most popular browser wallets.

OpenMask is the TON analogue of MetaMask, and features a similar architecture but with many modern updates.

OpenMask is supported by TON Foundation and is pursuing open-source development. If you are accustomed to working with crypto through a computer and Google Chrome browser, OpenMask will be the perfect fit for you!


**SafePal**

The SafePal hardware wallet was the first cold storage device to [support ](https://blog.safepal.com/ton/)[Toncoin](https://blog.safepal.com/ton/). In simple terms, a hard wallet is a small device similar in size to a flash drive, where you can store your coins securely. While the cold method is considered the most reliable way of storing digital assets, it can be inconvenient.

If you plan to store large amounts of crypto, the wallet services provided by SafePal may be a choice worth considering. The device supports 15 languages, more than 54 blockchains, and a huge number of different cryptocurrencies. SafePal currently has more than 6 million users from 196 countries.

**Tonhub**

Another non-custodial wallet based on TON developed by the TON Whales team. You can install Tonhub following[ this instruction](https://developers.tonhub.com/docs/overview).

Tonhub has a great design and similar elements to Tonkeeper, but also includes a couple of unique features:

– Toncoin staking directly through the application interface.

– Token Builder: a feature that enables users to create their own cryptocurrency based on TON (however this option is only available to members of the TON Whales club).

**TON Wallet**

[TON Wallet](https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/ton-wallet/nphplpgoakhhjchkkhmiggakijnkhfnd) has an extremely simple design, limited functionality, and is mainly suitable for storing and sending Toncoin to other users.

If you only need an app for basic coin transfers, TON Wallet is perfect for you!

Moreover there is currently an ecosystem-wide competition to create a new version of TON Wallet. It is likely that in the next few months we’ll see an improved version of this wallet.

**MyTonWallet**

Another non-custodial TON wallet. [MyTonWallet](https://mytonwallet.io/) is a mobile app and browser extension for Chrome.

This wallet allows you to store Toncoin, TON-based altcoins, and TON NFTs like general crypto wallets. However, MyTonWallet was the first to offer a staking function with an **official smart contract**.

Currently, TON holders with **10,000 coins or more** can make their first staking through the MyTonWallet interface. A new version of the official smart contract is expected to go live soon where the deposit threshold will be **significantly reduced**.

**C98 and Math Wallet**

These multi-chain, non-custodial wallets are not part of TON Ecosystem, but are compatible with The Open Network (TON) and Toncoin.

If you are already using either of these two services, it will be easy and convenient for you to store your Toncoin there. <https://coin98.net/what-is-ton-wallet>

If you are just starting to get acquainted with TON Ecosystem, we recommend using one of the wallets presented above, such as Tonkeeper.

**How to create a Tonkeeper account?**

**Step 1: Download the Tonkeeper wallet**

Go to the Tonkeeper website or find it in an app store and download the latest version of the wallet.

 ![](https://storage.googleapis.com/ton-strapi/Screenshot_2023_06_02_at_15_54_25_How_to_create_and_start_using_your_first_TON_wallet_24c3cb7e17/Screenshot_2023_06_02_at_15_54_25_How_to_create_and_start_using_your_first_TON_wallet_24c3cb7e17.png) 

**Step 2: Create a new wallet and write down your seed phrase**

A seed phrase is a set of 24 words that acts as a password for non-custodial cryptocurrency wallets. Be sure to write down the 24 secret words in the correct order on a piece of paper. This seed phrase will allow you to restore your wallet if you accidentally delete the application. Keep the seed phrase in a safe place – losing it will result in permanent loss of access to your assets.

Never store a seed phrase in a computer or phone: there are malicious programs that can recognize seed phrases.

 ![](https://storage.googleapis.com/ton-strapi/Screenshot_2023_06_02_at_15_54_40_How_to_create_and_start_using_your_first_TON_wallet_bcd8704aa8/Screenshot_2023_06_02_at_15_54_40_How_to_create_and_start_using_your_first_TON_wallet_bcd8704aa8.png) 

**Step 3: Verify your seed phrase**

Enter the words in the correct order.

**Step 4: Create and confirm a passcode to access the application**

This is a typical passcode like those used in any other application.

 ![](https://storage.googleapis.com/ton-strapi/wallet_3_5c43854ad2/wallet_3_5c43854ad2.jpeg) 

**It’s ready! You now have your own wallet!**

**How to get your first Toncoin?**

The easiest way to buy Toncoin is arguably through Tonkeeper. To do this, go to the “Browser → Exchanges” tab, and select an exchange service.

 ![](https://storage.googleapis.com/ton-strapi/wallet_4_c41b13204e/wallet_4_c41b13204e.jpeg) 

However, keep in mind that there are lots of ways to purchase TON and many of them are described in[ ](https://t.me/toncoin/703)[**this post**](https://t.me/toncoin/703).

**Tonkeeper is more than just a “wallet”**

Tonkeeper is a fully-fledged Web3 service with extensive functionality. We recommend exploring the app to discover how you can store your NFTs and other TON-based tokens, interact with decentralized sites such as NFT marketplaces and DEXs, and even invest in TON projects.

**Conclusion**

TON Ecosystem offers a variety of wallets, each with its unique features and capabilities. We provide multiple user-friendly gateways to help you obtain access to the world of blockchain and cryptocurrency, regardless of your level of expertise in the field. Getting involved requires just a few clicks!

Also, don’t forget that your 24-word seed phrase can be used with any of the TON wallets listed above and everything will work as usual. In other words, if you are tired of one service, you can easily switch to another!

The complete list of TON wallets can be found on this page: <https://ton.org/en/wallets>

***Please do not download or use any wallets that are not listed in the official TON resources.***


How to create and start using your first TON wallet?

Today, the [Metalist Game](https://game.metalist.io/), an AP NFT partner, announced a new collaboration with [The Open Network](https://ton.org/), aiming to launch its first Telegram game. This collab manifests as a fusion between Metalist's Web3 gaming and Telegram's expansive ecosystem, promising to open the gates of innovative gaming to Telegram's massive user base.

## Elevating the Gaming Landscape
This alliance is set to integrate high-quality Web3 gaming experience for nearly a billion users across the globe within the Telegram ecosystem. Metalist Game, with team members from gaming titans like NetEase, Ubisoft, Blizzard, and Riot Games, has been at the forefront of the Web3 gaming sphere, previously working with prestigious entities like the Associated Press and NARAKA: BLADEPOINT, a top-seller on Steam in 2022.
 ![](https://storage.googleapis.com/ton-strapi/Screenshot_2023_09_26_at_16_01_05_Metalist_Game_70d4d22535/Screenshot_2023_09_26_at_16_01_05_Metalist_Game_70d4d22535.png) 

> "The integration of TON Space within Telegram is highly meaningful, as it represents the potential user base of 800 million Telegram users for TON Space. Metalist Game will work with TON to explore Web3 game development within the Telegram ecosystem and create an entry point for 800 million users to enter the world of Web3 gaming through the Metalist Game Bot," **said Metalist Game's CEO, Franco.**

## A New Era of Gaming: Cards Ahoy & Game Console
Aiming to be a pioneer, Metalist Game has unveiled its premier TCG card game, 'Cards Ahoy.' This launch is coupled with their new distribution of the [on-chain game identity "Game Console"](https://game.metalist.io/gamerid) to players from the TON and Telegram ecosystems. Serving as Metalist Game's first game identity, the "Game Console" will soon provide a ton of gaming benefits from the [Metalist ](https://game.metalist.io/)ecosystem.
 ![](https://storage.googleapis.com/ton-strapi/Screenshot_2023_09_26_at_15_59_27_Metalist_Game_edbbffc063/Screenshot_2023_09_26_at_15_59_27_Metalist_Game_edbbffc063.png) 
Holders of this novelty game identity are in for a treat, with the entitlement to a Genesis Blind Box airdrop for 'Cards Ahoy.' It is more than a game; it's an entryway, a bridge connecting millions to the diverse and dynamic world of Web3 gaming.

This collaboration between Metalist Game and [TON ](https://ton.org/)is not just a partnership; it's a fusion of visions, a melding of innovations, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in the gaming world within the extensive and versatile Telegram ecosystem. It's a journey into uncharted gaming territories, with the promise of more to come, reshaping the gaming horizon and redefining the interaction between users and the gaming world.


Metalist Game Partners with TON to Launch Its First Telegram Game and Distribute Web3 GameID

We're rolling out a new Telegram Web3 Grants program that's all about boosting the growth of the TON Ecosystem on Telegram Messenger. This isn't just another blockchain accelerator; we pledge to create a world where Telegram becomes the all-in-one platform for all your needs – payments, utilities & tools, productivity, messaging, content, and even gaming. 

> "Today, we're launching the new grants program to encourage and support developers building within the Telegram Web3 ecosystem," **said Anthony Tsivarev, Director of Developer Relations at TON Foundation.** "TON's speed, scalability, affordability, and the unique user-growth opportunity afforded via Telegram is a helping hand no other blockchain system provides today. Now, more developers than ever can harness the garden of possibilities on TON and grow their ideas into real-world solutions."

## Grants Categories
To ensure we're distributing the funds efficiently and equally, we've broken the program into four categories, so whether you're just starting or have a full-blown project, there's something for you. And for those on the hunt for some venture capital backing, we have you covered, too.

### Type A – Initial Deployment 
Type A grants target initial deployments or proof of concept applications on the [Telegram Web Apps platform](https://core.telegram.org/bots/webapps). This also includes Web3 infrastructure based on the TON blockchain, with examples like [@wallet](https://wallet.tg/), [Wallet Pay](https://pay.wallet.tg/), and [TON Connect](https://docs.ton.org/develop/dapps/ton-connect/overview). If you've already launched a project, we're open to reviewing it and potentially providing a retrospective grant. 

You can aim for a grant of up to $10,000 in TON.

*Please note that this grant doesn't replace venture funding for expansion beyond this initial stage.*
&nbsp;

### Type B – Live TON-based Projects with Existing User Base 
This category is for live projects with an existing user base on the TON blockchain but hasn't integrated with Telegram yet. 

The target grant amount for this category is up to $10,000 in TON.
&nbsp;

### Type C – Live Non-TON-based Projects with Community 
If your project is live on another blockchain, but you're eyeing an expansion or considering moving to the TON blockchain and Telegram, this grant type is for you. 

We determine grant amounts based on specific milestones, looking at factors like user numbers, transactions, and Total Value Locked (TVL). 

The grant amounts for this category range between $20,000 and $50,000 in TON.
&nbsp;

### Type D – Projects Seeking Venture Funding 
The Grants Program doesn't provide venture funding, but don't worry, we will help you out. 

We will help you connect with VC funds or guide you for evaluation through [TONcoin.Fund](https://toncoin.fund/).
<hr>

Since 2022, we received over 450 submissions to the TON Grants program run by the TON Foundation and distributed more than $1.2M to 100+ applicant projects.


<button href="https://questbook.app/proposal_form/?grantId=0x3d9a26d083419d0d6cb0c5d9aed527698254b3ea&chainId=10&newTab=true" passutmsource="true">
  Apply Now
</button >
<br/>



TON Foundation Announces Telegram Web3 Grants

Last month, we had the privilege to introduce you to the first cohort of participants in the TON Accelerator Program. A month has passed, and we're back to introducing another set of participants competing to join the TON Accelerator Program's second cohort. 

Today, we want to introduce you to six new projects, which will introduce themselves during the Demo Day on August 31 and compete for the attention of investors and strategic partners. 

But before we get to the Demo Day participants, we want to remind you of our recent news that will further bolster our efforts of supporting the emerging TON Ecosystem projects. 

### **TON Accelerator Welcomes TonX Studio**
[TonX Studio](https://www.tonx.studio/), a leading TON venture studio in Asia, founded by early TON developers and investors, is joining the TON Accelerator among the previous partners, committed to creating innovative solutions that empower the next-generation internet, TON.

TonX’s portfolio includes groundbreaking products like TonStake, the first public staking validator, revolutionizing network participation. TonKey,  the cutting-edge multi-sig wallet for TON, sets new standards in security and convenience. TON.RUN, the unmatched search engine for TON, transforms the discovery of decentralized applications and smart contracts.

TonX hosts impactful hackathons to cultivate talent and foster a vibrant community. Currently, their focus is on TonFura, a key infrastructure for tApps and TON to grow.  The first major event is the Taipei Builders Workshop, taking place on September 22. For more info and registration, [visit this link](https://www.accupass.com/go/TONTaipei2023). 

**TonX joins the list of existing TON Accelerator partners:**

- [Gotbit](https://twitter.com/gotbit_io) - a hedge fund and market-making company offering trading and risk management solutions

- [Web3Port](https://twitter.com/Web3Port_Labs) - a developer of tools facilitating connections between Web3 startups and contributors to drive innovation

- [Tonstarter](https://twitter.com/ton_starter) - the leading fundraising platform on TON 

- [TEB](https://twitter.com/boomlabs_web3) - an incubator for Web3 developers based in South Korea

- [Cypher Capital](https://twitter.com/cypher_capital) - a United Arab Emirates-based multi-strategy crypto investment firm.

### **Demo Day #2, August 31**
Accelerator Demo Day is a unique and exclusive opportunity for projects building on TON, to showcase their product to a set of investors and partners. During the Demo Day, the selected projects compete for investments and mentorship from our partners, getting a unique chance to kickstart their growth 

**These six projects will compete during the Demo Day on August 31, and you’re invited to join us and see what they have to offer.**

- **[re:doubt](https://beta.redoubt.online/)** - Powerful TON data and research tools. Re:Doubt is the most comprehensive TON data provider, simplifies the process of accessing complex data through the use of emerging TVM-based blockchain coverage, AI-powered charting tools, and insights from a community-driven market. Our suite of tools is capable of extracting, combining, modifying, and analyzing data from multiple sources, whether they are on-chain or off-chain, into a single, cohesive system that produces meaningful insights. [Follow re:doubt on Twitter.](https://twitter.com/redoubt_web3) 
&nbsp;
- **[8XR](https://8xr.io/)** - Bringing games into Telegram with a 2D/3D game creation tool. 8XR has more than 30 games, 30,000 MAU and 200,000 play sessions in the last 30 days. [Click here to stay up to date with their latest news.](https://twitter.com/8xr_engine) 
&nbsp;
- **[FanTON](https://fan-ton.com/)** - The first fantasy football platform in TON. FanTON is the premier game in the TON ecosystem, deeply integrated with Telegram. Fanton is a Play2Earn fantasy football game, something between betting and a football manager - you choose a squad of football players and score points for the players’ performances in real football matches. Those who get more points win crypto. [Follow FanTON on Twitter. ](https://twitter.com/fantasyfanton)
&nbsp;
- **[TON Attendance Protocol](https://tap.tg/)** - Record engagement on the chain. TAP (TON Attendance Protocol) is a dynamic application designed to capture and commemorate both on-chain and off-chain interactions using NFTs. From individuals to businesses, anyone can craft custom TAP badges (TEP-62 tokens) directly within the application, offering a seamless way to share a memory with their audience. [Click here to follow TAP on Twitter. ](https://twitter.com/tap_xyz)
&nbsp;
- **[Nabi](https://nabi.blue/)** - Infrastructure for the creation of decentralized social protocols. Nabi Protocol is a Web3 decentralized social graph protocol designed for the TON Blockchain. The protocol aims to give users full control over their social identities, therefore allowing users to create and nurture meaningful connections with the community around them on their own terms. The protocol is developed with a modular approach that enables integrating new features and updates while ensuring that user-owned content and social connections are unaltered. [You can follow Nabi on Twitter here. ](https://twitter.com/nabiprotocol)
&nbsp;
- **[Lucia](https://www.thekie.com/lucia-carbon-trade)** - Trade energy and carbon credits on TON. Lucia is a TON blockchain-based platform, transforming the carbon credit trading landscape from a traditional B2B model to an inclusive C2C marketplace. By seamlessly integrating NFT functionalities, Lucia empowers individuals to actively participate in environmental responsibility while exploring the world of digital assets. Dive into the future where sustainability meets peer-to-peer trading with Lucia. [Click here to follow the creators of Lucia on Twitter. ](https://twitter.com/thekielux)

We are thrilled to welcome these teams to the TON Demo Day and are excited to see what they bring next! 

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