Tech Desk 
Jan 02, 2025
Telegram has released its first update of the new year 2025, integrating a new account verification method powered by third parties, new message search filters, and the ability to turn gifts into non-fungible tokens (NFTs).
Meanwhile, telegram already had a programme to verify public figures and organisations on the platform, and it has now launched a new project to let already-verified third-party authorities, such as food quality regulators or educational consortiums, verify an account.
Notably, users will be able to view a new logo next to their names instead of a blue checkmark, if their accounts are verified by a third party.
In a blog post, Telegram stated: “This decentralised platform for additional verification will help prevent scams and reduce misinformation — with a unique proactive solution that sets a new safety standard for social platforms.”
If any user or organisation want to be verified, then they will be required to first undergo the verification process and complete an application to receive the verified mark. Telegram said that entities can use its Bot API to assign or remove verification — somewhat akin to organisations buying verification on X (Formerly known as Twritter) and verifying their affiliated accounts.
Additionally, Telegram rolled out a way to turn gifts into NFTs with custom backgrounds and icons. Users can send gifts by spending Telegram Stars, which they can buy through the app or the Fragment site by connecting their TON crypto wallet.
The company said that users would be able to trade these NFTs on different platforms. It is important to note that Telegram charges users to upgrade their gifts to collectables to cover blockchain transaction costs.
