TON Achieves EVM Capabilities with TON Applications Chain (TAC)
TON is a non-EVM blockchain, meaning it does not natively support Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) — the runtime environment for smart contracts on Ethereum. Examples of non-EVM blockchains include Bitcoin, Solana, and Polkadot. These blockchains may benefit from EVM capabilities because integrating EVM would allow them to leverage the extensive ecosystem of Ethereum-compatible tools, dApps, and developer expertise. However, bringing EVM capabilities to non-EVM chains is complicated due to differences in underlying architectures, consensus mechanisms, and programming languages, which require significant engineering efforts.
The Integration involves the TON Layer 2 integrating Polygon CDK and the interoperability protocol Agglayer, facilitating EVM-compatible DApps on TAC. This move will enable a broader range of applications for TON users, including DeFi platforms, gaming applications, and advanced identity solutions.EVM compatibility will eliminate existing barriers, attracting significant interest in DeFi and GameFi applications on the network.
Currently, EVM applications are not available on the TON network, necessitating users to navigate complex interfaces. However, the recent integration of USDT on TON and the popularity of Tap-to-Earn applications, like Notcoin, have spurred growth in the mini apps ecosystem. Notably, Telegram, the messaging platform closely associated with TON, has 5.8 million monthly active on-chain wallets. With EVM compatibility, Ethereum developers can now leverage this extensive user base on Telegram, creating seamless experiences and expanding their reach.
Finally, TON achieved EVM compatibility through a new Layer 2 solution based on Polygon’s technology. TON Applications Chain (TAC) is a new protocol that facilitates this integration by leveraging Polygon’s zkEVM. Polygon was chosen as the base for EVM compatibility to allow TON to maintain its high throughput and low latency while leveraging Polygon’s expertise in creating scalable and efficient Layer-2 solutions.
The combination of EVM capability and TON’s integration with Telegram creates unique synergies by enabling seamless access to Ethereum-compatible dApps and smart contracts directly through the widely used Telegram platform. This integration can drive mass adoption by making Ethereum-based DeFi dApps more accessible to Telegram’s vast user base. Users can manage assets, interact with dApps, and execute smart contracts within a familiar environment, fostering broader engagement and enhancing the reach of both TON and Ethereum ecosystems.
The introduction of EVM functionality is expected to enhance the user experience on the TON network significantly. EVM compatibility will streamline the deployment of Ethereum-based applications on TON, reducing complexity and improving accessibility for users. This integration will foster a more robust ecosystem, offering users a wider array of services and applications. Additionally, it will attract more developers to the TON network, leveraging its unique features and extensive user base to create innovative solutions.
Conclusion
The collaboration between TAC and Polygon Labs marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of the TON network, setting the stage for increased adoption and functionality. By embracing EVM compatibility, the TON ecosystem is poised to become more versatile and user-friendly, driving growth and innovation in the blockchain space.