Telegram Mini App PAWS Migrates 80 Million Users to Solana Amidst Policy Changes

PAWS, a popular Telegram Mini App with 80 million users, has migrated to Solana in response to Telegram's new policy requiring Mini Apps to exclusively operate on the TON blockchain. This shift, announced recently, impacts apps operating across multiple blockchains, forcing them to choose between TON exclusivity or leaving the platform. PAWS' migration has significantly boosted the Solana ecosystem, leading to over 9 million Phantom wallet downloads and the funding of more than 1 million new Solana addresses before its token generation event. Additionally, PAWS' NFT vouchers have spurred over 100,000 transactions on Magic Eden within two weeks. This move highlights a debate between value extraction and injection in blockchain projects, with PAWS focusing on sustained user engagement. The project aims to evolve into a comprehensive Web3 brand with DeFi integrations and real-world activations, potentially setting a precedent for bridging Telegram's user base with decentralized networks.