This new system will actually enable those concerned to convert 100% of the stars received into Toncoin, Telegram’s cryptocurrency, and thus into cash.

Telegram says it will charge a commission, but does not say how much. Creators will nevertheless be able to reinvest their gifts in advertising, subsidized up to 30% by the platform.

By sending a “star reaction” on a post in a channel, an animation is then launched on the screen. Users can press longer on the post to see the “star” option appear, as Telegram shows in its blog post.

To obtain stars, users must pay a fee ranging from USD0.29 for 15 stars to USD49.99 for 2500 stars.

For the most generous, a ranking of top donors is available. However, users can choose to remain anonymous and choose to not have their name appear in the list, the platform points out.

In addition to spontaneous donations, users can, as on Twitch, subscribe to a channel in exchange for a monthly payment, the price of which is set by the creator. In exchange for a specific number of stars, users will have access to exclusive content.

However, if a subscriber pays for access to the channel, a creator of a professional Telegram account will also be able to share paid-for content.