Circle launches native USDC on OKX X Layer, supporting cross-chain interaction

Circle expands blockchain payment infrastructure: Launch native USDC and cross-chain transfer protocol on OKX X Layer

Circle has expanded its blockchain payment infrastructure by launching native USDC and cross-chain transfer protocol on its OKX Layer. This integration increases access to regulated digital dollar payments while improving cross-chain capabilities for developers and enterprises. The move also consolidates X Layer's position as a network that supports decentralized finance, payments, tokenized assets and artificial intelligence applications.

Native USDC brings direct stablecoin access to X Layer

Circle has launched native USDC on X Layer. X Layer is a second-level blockchain that is compatible with Ethereum developed by OKX. The release allows developers and businesses to use Circle-issued stablecoins directly on the network, while reducing reliance on previously bridged versions that support USDC activities.

This integration allows decentralized applications to use native USDC for payments, transactions, lending and other financial services. Developers can also build apps using the regulated dollar liquidity of the network itself. As a result, the project party can directly access Circle's stablecoin infrastructure.

Eligible companies can issue and redeem USDC through Circle Mint on X Layer. The service provides institutions with regulated stablecoin liquidity for settlement and fund management. At the same time, Circle expands its infrastructure for enterprise blockchain applications through this integration.

X Layer operates as a layer 2 network compatible with Ethereum, with lower transaction costs and faster settlement speeds. The blockchain supports decentralized finance, payment services, tokenized real-world assets and artificial intelligence applications. As a result, native USDC enhances payment capabilities in multiple areas operating on the network.

During the transition, Circle will continue to support Ethereum-based bridged USDC on the X Layer. But the company encourages app and ecosystem participants to gradually migrate to native USDC. This approach improves consistency while reducing reliance on external bridging infrastructure.

Cross-chain transport protocol extends multi-chain connectivity

Circle has also activated its cross-chain transport protocol on the X Layer. The protocol allows users to transfer native USDC between supported blockchain networks. Unlike traditional bridging models, CCTP transfers native tokens rather than encapsulated assets.

This addition brings the number of blockchains supporting CCTP to 26. At the same time, following the X Layer integration, native USDC is now running in 36 blockchain ecosystems. As a result, developers gain broader access to cross-chain mobility.

Cross-chain functionality supports decentralized applications that require efficient transfer of stablecoins between different ecosystems. Developers can build services without creating a separate liquidity pool for each blockchain. This design also simplifies the payment and settlement process between supporting networks.

Circle designed CCTP to improve interoperability between blockchain ecosystems while maintaining native asset transfers. The protocol eliminates the need for encapsulated stablecoins during supported transfers. As a result, developers can create applications with more direct cross-chain payment capabilities.

The expanded network also consolidates X Layer's position in the broader blockchain ecosystem. Applications can connect to supported chains while maintaining access to regulated USDC liquidity. This combination supports running payment services and decentralized financial products in multiple blockchain environments.

Extended support for payments, artificial intelligence applications, and enterprise services

Native USDC also supports payment providers, financial technology companies, decentralized applications, and automated financial systems operating on the X Layer. Companies can use regulated digital dollars to settle transactions on the blockchain. In addition, developers can integrate stablecoin payments into consumer and business services.

This integration connects with X Layer's x402 ecosystem, which focuses on automated payments between artificial intelligence agents and digital services. Developers can use USDC for application programming interfaces and machine-driven payment processes. As a result, automated systems gain regulated blockchain settlement capabilities.

Circle continues to expand its blockchain infrastructure beyond the release of X Layer. The company recently introduced founding validators for its Arc blockchain initiative. Participants include BlackRock, DTCC, Galaxy, MasterCard, Visa, Standard Chartered Bank and other financial and technology organizations.

The verifier community reflects Circle's broader strategy to expand regulated blockchain infrastructure in financial markets. Corporate participation also supports the company's long-term network development goals. At the same time, Circle continues to improve the availability of native USDC in more blockchain ecosystems.

X Layer integration is another step in Circle's broader expansion strategy. Native USDC, Circle Mint, and CCTP now offer additional payment and settlement options for businesses and developers. Together, these services strengthen the regulated stablecoin infrastructure in the expanding multi-chain blockchain ecosystem.