Samsung is set to roll out a new feature allowing U.S. Galaxy users to transfer USDC stablecoins across borders using Solana's blockchain. Starting in late October, the functionality will be integrated into Samsung Wallet and Samsung Pay, eliminating the need for a separate crypto app. The service will support fiat on- and off-ramps, enabling users to send USDC to compatible external wallets with Solana's and Sui's infrastructure powering the backend. The feature is developed in partnership with Bastion, a licensed stablecoin custodian in the U.S.
Woncheol Chai, EVP and head of the digital wallet team at Samsung Electronics, emphasized the convenience of the new service, stating that it aims to make cross-border money transfers as easy as using a phone's built-in wallet. Samsung will not charge fees for these transfers, though recipient wallets or exchanges may impose their own. The service will also support transfers to eligible bank accounts in over 60 countries, with funds converted to the recipient's local currency.
The launch marks the latest step in Samsung's collaboration with Coinbase, which began last year when Samsung enabled U.S. Galaxy users to fund their Coinbase accounts via Samsung Pay. Coinbase will custody the USDC held in Samsung Wallet through Coinbase Prime. Industry leaders, including Alec Lovett of Coinbase and Lily Liu of the Solana Foundation, highlighted the significance of this development for stablecoin adoption and cross-border payments.
Samsung plans to expand the service to additional markets, subject to local regulatory requirements.