Main:
- Telegram Apps Center — a catalog of applications within the messenger, developed by the TON Studio team.
- Here you can find mini-apps, web services, and bots
- All applications undergo a security check
- Developers can add their applications for free
Why Telegram is no longer just a messenger
In recent years, Telegram has changed significantly. It is now not just an app for communication but also a platform for launching other applications — like an App Store or Google Play, but within the messenger.
Developers are creating mini-apps, web services, and bots for Telegram. To make it easier for users to find them, the Apps Center has been launched — the official catalog of all applications.
What distinguishes mini apps from bots
Telegram offers two types of applications: mini apps (TMA) and bots. Let's explore the differences:
Feature | Telegram Mini Apps (TMA) | Bots |
Appearance | Support for a web interface within the app (in simple terms — a website inside the app) | Chat-oriented interface with commands |
Functionality | Suitable for complex tasks: orders, payments, games | There is no proper UI, everything is limited to basic buttons and commands in chat. |
Speed of operation | Fast, thanks to local interactions | Depends on the response speed of the server side |
Payment integration | Full support for embedded payments | Usually limited or absent |
Interface design | Supports custom design with modern elements | Simple text interface with buttons |
Development complexity | More complex, requires knowledge of JavaScript and Telegram API | Easier to develop, minimal requirements |
Use cases | Online stores, educational platforms, CRM | Notifications, simple surveys, user support |
Development tools | Support for WebApp API for frontend creation | Bot API for basic functionality |
Flexible settings | High: able to implement complex scenarios | Limited: suitable for basic tasks |
Interface examples | Store, personal account, gaming applications | Chat with a fixed command set |
What applications can be found
We categorize what's available in the catalog:
For work and study
- Text and voice message translators
- Calendars and task planners
- Note-taking and information organization apps
- File converters in various formats
- Weather services with notifications
For entertainment
- Single-player and multiplayer games
- Quizzes and trivia
- Entertainment bots
- Music and video players
- Sticker and meme generators
For finance
- Cryptocurrency wallets
- Currency converters with up-to-date rates
- Payment systems
- Expense and income trackers
- Investment tools
For education
- Language courses and trainers
- Educational content aggregators
- Apps for memory improvement
- Digital learning materials
- Testing systems
For communication
- Dating apps
- Voice rooms
- Anonymous chats
- Language exchange
- Group activities
For shopping
- Marketplaces
- Price comparison services
- Delivery bots
- Ticketing systems
- Auction platforms
Developer opportunities
Telegram provides developers with powerful tools for app creation. Let's explore the key features:
Technical advantages:
- API access with documentation
- Built-in payment tools
- Integration with Telegram cloud storage
- Support for WebApp and JavaScript frameworks
- Ability to use Telegram's server infrastructure
Monetization:
- Built-in payment system with minimal fees
- Option to create paid subscriptions
- Donation system through Telegram
- Advertising platform
- Internal currency Telegram Stars
- Affiliate programs
Analytics:
- In-depth usage statistics
- User engagement metrics
- Performance reports
- Conversion data
- A/B testing tools
Platform advantages:
- A huge active audience
- Rapid publishing process
- No placement fees
- Regular API updates
- Active developer community
- Viral reach through referral links
Examples of using Telegram Mini Apps in business
Telegram Mini Apps open up a world of opportunities for businesses by providing tools to tackle various tasks. They allow for the creation of digital business cards, organization of online stores with payment system integration, and hosting educational courses with access to personal accounts within the messenger. Such solutions are convenient for small and medium-sized businesses looking to simplify customer interaction.
Gamification and CRM systems are another popular area of application. Interactive mini-apps help engage the audience through giveaways and other activities, increasing subscriber loyalty. At the same time, Telegram can become a task management platform, offering solutions that are beneficial for teams and individual entrepreneurs.
Additionally, integration with TON blockchain solutions allows for cryptocurrency payments, while the interactive interface of mini-apps boosts conversion rates in the sale of info products.
How to add an app to the catalog
If you are a developer and want to add your app to the Telegram Apps Center, follow this step-by-step guide:
- App development
- Create an app according to the official Telegram rules available in the Telegram API documentation.
- Use the Bot API to build a functional prototype.
- Test the app on various devices and operating systems.
- Ensure the app's security by checking for vulnerabilities with third-party tools.
- Registration through BotFather
- Get an access token for your bot or mini app.
- Set up the main commands and interactions through the Bot API.
- Fill in the description that will be displayed in the Apps Center.
- Application Submission
- Prepare your graphic materials: screenshots, logos, and icons.
- Write a concise and clear description of the functionality.
- Place the application in the appropriate category of the catalog.
- Submit your application via @app_moderation_bot
- Send your application through the official bot @app_moderation_bot.
- Telegram carefully checks the security, interface, and functionality of the application.
- If there are any comments, correct them and resubmit your application.
- Publication
- After successful verification, your application will appear in the catalog, accessible to millions of Telegram users.
By the way, you can find additional information about TMA at this link.
What about TON App — is it an alternative?
TON App is a standalone platform for applications on the TON blockchain. It is not directly connected to Telegram.
What's special about TON App:
- Focus on projects, communities, blogs, and services within the TON ecosystem
- Own verification system
- Integration with TON wallets
Why Apps Center is more convenient:
- Built right into Telegram
- More diverse applications
- More stringent security checks
- More frequent updates
- Supported by the TON Studio team
In reality, many developers publish apps on both platforms, but the primary one is considered Apps Center.
What’s the outcome
- Telegram Apps Center is a convenient way to find useful applications right within the messenger. Users can instantly launch apps in the adjacent tab, without the need to navigate to a website or open a bot via links.
- The catalog is constantly updated: new games, work services, and financial tools are emerging.
- All applications undergo security checks — you don’t have to worry about scammers.
- If you're a developer, now is a great time to publish your app: the audience is growing, and competition is still low.
- TON App can be an interesting alternative for driving traffic to your TMA, but for regular users, the Apps Center is more convenient. The Telegram Apps Center allows users to instantly launch apps in a neighboring tab, without the need to navigate to a website or open a bot through links.
