Telegram CEO unveils Cocoon, a decentralized AI compute network built on TON

At Blockchain Life 2025, Telegram CEO Pavel Durov unveiled Cocoon, short for Confidential Compute Open Network, a decentralized infrastructure initiative combining blockchain, AI, and social media.

Durov said Cocoon will allow GPU owners to contribute computing power to the network and earn TON tokens in exchange, while developers access low-cost AI compute. The system is designed to ensure users can interact with AI features like summarization and message drafting without exposing private data to centralized providers.

Telegram itself will be the first major customer and largest promoter of the network, integrating Cocoon’s capabilities into its mini-app and bot ecosystem. The project is scheduled to launch in November 2025, and applications are open to both hardware providers and developers.

Durov emphasized that Cocoon’s transparent, market-driven design will make AI compute pricing competitive and censorship-resistant. He framed the initiative as part of Telegram’s broader mission to protect user privacy and digital freedom amid growing centralization in global tech.