Samsung Wallet Adds USDC on Solana for Millions of US Galaxy Users
Samsung Wallet has begun rolling out USDC accounts on the Solana blockchain for eligible U.S. Galaxy users, with custody handled by Bastion and Coinbase. Reports differ on the launch timing, with Decrypt describing the feature as live and Crypto Briefing expecting it around November 5, 2026.
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Feature Scope and Availability
Samsung is adding stablecoin accounts to its Samsung Wallet app, allowing eligible U.S. Galaxy users to buy, hold, send and receive Circle's USDC on the Solana blockchain. Decrypt reported that the accounts went live on Thursday, while Crypto Briefing said the feature is expected to go live around November 5, 2026. The two reports do not reconcile on timing, and the discrepancy has not been resolved in the material available for this piece.
Both outlets put the potential reach at about 82 million compatible Galaxy devices in the U.S. Crypto Briefing cautions that compatible devices are not the same as active users, and that identity checks and the New York exclusion will narrow the eligible pool.
Eligibility and Access Requirements
Access is limited to U.S. residents aged 18 and older who verify their identity, excluding New York residents. Users need biometric authentication, such as a fingerprint or face scan, and a compatible Galaxy device running Android 13 or later. Users do not need a separate crypto app or to manage private keys.
Custody Structure
Samsung says it does not hold customer funds and is not the custodian. Bastion, a licensed stablecoin custodian and infrastructure provider, is the primary custodian, and Coinbase acts as sub-custodian through its Coinbase Prime Vault. Samsung's disclosures describe the product as a crypto wallet rather than a bank account.
Fees and Transfer Options
Users can send USDC to other Samsung Wallet users in the U.S. and to compatible external crypto wallets with no Samsung transfer fee, though other providers may charge one. Payouts to qualifying bank accounts in more than 60 countries are supported, with fees that vary by destination. Topping up by credit card, including through Samsung Pay, carries a 4% fee, and withdrawals to a bank account or debit card also carry a fee. New users who make a first top-up of $50 or more can receive $25 in USDC.
Next Steps
Samsung said it expects to explore online and in-store stablecoin payments and to expand to additional markets, subject to local regulation. Samsung's mobile business executive Woncheol Chai framed the rollout as a way to let Galaxy users use stablecoins without navigating traditional crypto tools. Solana Foundation president Lily Liu said stablecoins have proven the technology works and lacked a route to mainstream users.
Why It Matters
For Traders
Launch timing differs between reports, so USDC demand from this channel may not show up until the rollout is confirmed.
For Investors
Distribution of USDC through a major consumer device maker signals a push beyond crypto-native users toward everyday money movement.
For Builders
Samsung's model separates the interface from custody, so teams building on Solana or with Coinbase Prime Vault may see new transfer volume and integration demand.
This article is for information only and is not financial advice. Read the full disclaimer.
