World Network Upgrades Its Blockchain with Native USDC Support and Circle's Cross-Chain Transfer Protocol

The update, announced by World Network on June 11, brings an end to bridged USD Coin (USDC) on World Chain, replacing it with fully-backed, native tokens issued directly by Circle.

World Network has upgraded its blockchain with native USDC support and Circle’s cross-chain transfer protocol. The update, announced on June 11, brings an end to bridged USD Coin (USDC) on World Chain.

Instead, the platform’s 27 million users will now have access to fully-backed, native tokens issued directly by Circle and covered by U.S. dollar reserves. This will provide a faster, more reliable way to transfer money on World Chain.

"We are excited to announce that our Chain has been upgraded with native USDC support and V2 of Circle's Cross Chain Transfer Protocol (CCTPV2), making it easier than ever to transfer, use, and build with USDC on multiple chains," World Network said in a statement.

This integration also brings several new features, such as Circle Mint access for qualified companies, enhanced developer tools for creating USDC Mini Apps, and quicker peer-to-peer transfer capabilities.

The move marks a significant step for World, which has seen surging use of USDC for remittances and payments through Mini Apps in its World App.

This latest update will further boost this functionality and pave the way for developers to build more financial tools directly into the platform.

The upgrade also signals a shift in strategy for World, which is pivoting towards offering more financial services and expanding beyond its core identity focus.

This comes just weeks after World raised $135 million from investors like a16z and Bain Capital Crypto in a public Worldcoin (WLD) token sale.

Other recent milestones include the launch of the Orb Mini device in the U.S., a partnership with Visa, and entry into Taiwan, Argentina, and Thailand on May 31.

Despite facing regulatory challenges in countries like Indonesia, Kenya, and Brazil, which led to a setback in its planned India launch, World continues to grow rapidly.

The platform is planning to add support for Circle’s euro-pegged EURC in the near future.