The Open Network (TON) is making waves across the blockchain landscape, capturing attention with a surge in Toncoin’s price, the explosive growth of memecoins, and high-profile airdrops like Notcoin and Hamster Combat. As Telegram continues to integrate blockchain technology into its ecosystem, TON has evolved from a niche project into one of the most dynamic and user-driven networks in 2025. This article explores the core components of the TON ecosystem, from wallets and exchanges to popular airdrops and memecoins shaping its future.
What Is The Open Network (TON)?
The Open Network (TON) is a decentralized blockchain platform originally conceived by the Telegram team, led by the Durov brothers. Designed to bring scalable, fast, and user-friendly blockchain capabilities to Telegram’s massive global audience, TON enables seamless integration of digital assets, decentralized applications (dApps), and Web3 services directly within the messaging app.
TON’s growth has been nothing short of remarkable. In 2019, the network had just 35,000 accounts. By 2021, that number rose to 80,000, then 120,000 in 2022. In 2023, adoption accelerated sharply with 1.8 million accounts — and as of 2024, TON now boasts over 5.2 million active users. This surge is driven by key milestones: setting a world record for transaction speed, the viral success of gamified projects like Notcoin, and deep integration with Telegram’s 800+ million users.
This rapid expansion positions TON as a leading player in the Web3 space — especially for mobile-first, social-driven crypto experiences.
Top Wallets in the TON Ecosystem
To interact with the TON blockchain, users need secure and intuitive wallets. Here are two of the most widely used options:
Tonkeeper
Tonkeeper is a non-custodial Web3 wallet built specifically for The Open Network. It gives users full control over their private keys and digital assets, aligning with decentralized principles. The app supports essential functions such as sending, receiving, and purchasing cryptocurrencies directly within the interface.
Beyond basic transactions, Tonkeeper features an integrated exchange for swapping tokens and supports staking of Toncoin — the native cryptocurrency of the TON blockchain. Staking helps secure the network and allows users to earn passive income, making Tonkeeper not just a storage solution but a full-featured gateway into TON’s decentralized economy.
👉 Discover how easy it is to manage your digital assets on a high-speed blockchain.
Telegram Wallet
Integrated directly into the Telegram app, the Wallet by Telegram offers unparalleled accessibility. Users can access it instantly by searching for @Wallet in any Telegram chat. No separate download or signup is required — just your existing Telegram account.
The wallet combines both custodial and non-custodial features. While some funds are managed through Telegram’s secure custodial system, users also have access to TON Space, a self-custody environment where they maintain full control over their keys. It supports multiple asset types including Toncoin, jettons (TON-based tokens), NFTs, Bitcoin (via bridging), and USDT — all managed seamlessly inside Telegram.
This deep integration makes it one of the most user-friendly entry points into crypto for mainstream audiences.
Decentralized & Centralized Exchanges on TON
As the ecosystem grows, so does its financial infrastructure. From DeFi platforms to major centralized exchanges, TON is gaining robust support across trading environments.
STON.fi
STON.fi is a leading decentralized exchange (DEX) on the TON blockchain, operating as an automated market maker (AMM). Launched in July 2023, it has quickly become a cornerstone of TON’s DeFi landscape.
With over $85 million in Total Value Locked (TVL)**, STON.fi demonstrates strong community trust and engagement. Its native token, **$STON, plays a crucial role in governance and rewards distribution. The platform offers smooth swaps between TON-based assets like jettons and stablecoins, with low fees and fast confirmations thanks to TON’s high-performance architecture.
Integration with popular wallets like Tonkeeper and Telegram Wallet ensures a frictionless experience for both new and experienced users.
Bybit
While not exclusive to TON, Bybit is one of the major centralized exchanges supporting Toncoin trading pairs. Since its launch in 2018, Bybit has grown to serve over 10 million users worldwide with advanced trading tools, including spot, futures, options, and launchpad offerings.
Its support for Toncoin increases liquidity and visibility for the asset, helping onboard traders from outside the Telegram ecosystem. With strong security practices and multi-language support, Bybit serves as a bridge between traditional crypto traders and the emerging TON community.
👉 Explore how top exchanges are fueling the rise of next-gen blockchains like TON.
Notable Airdrops Driving Adoption
Airdrops have played a pivotal role in growing TON’s user base by rewarding early participation. These campaigns often combine gamification with real economic incentives.
Blum
Blum is a crypto trading platform accessible entirely through Telegram via a mini-app. Founded by a former senior executive at Binance’s European division, along with co-founders Vladimir Maslyakov and Vladimir Smerkis, Blum aims to simplify access to digital assets.
Users can trade coins, tokens, and select derivatives without leaving Telegram. Its upcoming airdrop has generated significant buzz, positioning Blum as a potential leader in social finance (SocialFi) on TON.
Hamster Combat
Inspired by Notcoin’s success, Hamster Combat is a clicker game where players tap a hamster icon to mine in-game tokens. Like its predecessor, it leverages Telegram’s massive reach to onboard users into the TON ecosystem through fun and simple gameplay.
Although still in early stages, Hamster Combat has attracted millions of players and partnered with BingX to enhance its exchange listing prospects. Such gamified experiences are proving highly effective at driving mass adoption.
Viral Memecoins on the TON Blockchain
Memecoins have become cultural phenomena within TON — blending humor, community spirit, and speculative value.
Notcoin
NOT is more than just a meme — it's a cultural movement built on the TON blockchain. Starting as a free-to-play "tap-to-earn" game on Telegram, Notcoin went viral thanks to its addictive gameplay and zero-cost entry barrier.
At its peak, Notcoin attracted 35 million users, with over six million playing daily. Players earned tokens simply by tapping their screens — no investment required. This accessibility helped democratize crypto participation and laid the foundation for future token distribution models.
Now migrated to the TON blockchain, NOT remains one of the most influential memecoins driving awareness and engagement.
Ton Fish
TON FISH is recognized as Telegram’s first social meme token. Designed to foster community interaction within the TON ecosystem, FISH tokens can be traded across both decentralized and centralized exchanges.
The most active trading pair — USDT/FISH — sees consistent volume on STON.fi, reflecting ongoing interest. More than just a speculative asset, TON FISH represents a shift toward community-owned digital cultures emerging organically from social platforms like Telegram.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is The Open Network (TON) officially part of Telegram?
A: While TON was originally developed by Telegram’s team, it now operates as an independent, community-driven blockchain. However, Telegram maintains close integration with TON through features like Wallet and mini-apps.
Q: How do I start using the TON ecosystem?
A: Begin by installing Tonkeeper or accessing Wallet via @Wallet in Telegram. From there, you can receive Toncoin, explore dApps, participate in games like Notcoin, or trade on STON.fi.
Q: Can I stake Toncoin?
A: Yes — platforms like Tonkeeper allow users to stake Toncoin directly from their wallets. Staking contributes to network security and earns staking rewards over time.
Q: Are TON-based memecoins safe to invest in?
A: As with any memecoin, investments carry risk due to volatility and speculative nature. Always research thoroughly and only invest what you can afford to lose.
Q: What makes TON different from other blockchains?
A: TON stands out due to its ultra-fast transaction speeds, low fees, and native integration with Telegram, enabling frictionless onboarding for hundreds of millions of potential users.
Q: Where can I trade Toncoin?
A: Toncoin is available on major exchanges including Bybit and OKX, as well as decentralized platforms like STON.fi.
👉 See why innovators are choosing high-speed ecosystems like TON for next-gen crypto projects.
Final Thoughts
The Open Network is more than just another blockchain — it's a rapidly growing digital ecosystem fueled by social interaction, gaming mechanics, and seamless mobile integration. With powerful infrastructure like STON.fi, accessible wallets like Tonkeeper and Telegram Wallet, and viral sensations such as Notcoin and Hamster Combat, TON is redefining how everyday users engage with Web3.
As adoption continues to climb and new projects emerge, TON is well-positioned to become one of the most influential blockchain platforms of 2025 and beyond — especially for those looking to bridge crypto with real-world social experiences.
Core Keywords: The Open Network (TON), Toncoin, TON ecosystem, memecoins on TON, Telegram blockchain integration, STON.fi, Notcoin airdrop