Solana's Second Crypto Phone, 'Seeker,' Set for 2025 Release
Solana Mobile is launching its second crypto-focused smartphone, Seeker, in 2025, with significant hardware upgrades like improved battery life, camera, and a lighter design compared to its predecessor, Saga. Seeker will feature a built-in crypto wallet with enhanced transaction capabilities and an improved Dapp store, which supports more crypto apps and better token reward tracking. With over 100,000 pre-orders secured in early 2024, anticipation for Seeker is high as Solana pushes further into mobile crypto hardware. (CoinDesk)
Puma Partners with Web3 Game to Boost Mainstream Crypto Adoption
Puma has partnered with the Web3 mobile game UNKJD Soccer to introduce Puma-based characters and content, marking a significant move towards mainstream adoption of blockchain and play-to-earn gaming. This collaboration highlights the increasing credibility of Web3 as established brands like Puma continue to embrace blockchain, aiming to provide immersive gaming experiences. With UNKJD already gaining traction and Puma’s growing involvement in Web3, the partnership is expected to accelerate public acceptance of crypto technology. (Cointelegraph)
Circle Expands USDC to Brazil and Mexico for Seamless Payments
Circle has integrated its USDC stablecoin with Brazil's PIX and Mexico's SPEI payment systems, allowing for faster and cheaper conversions between local currencies and USDC. This eliminates the need for international wire transfers, benefiting businesses engaged in cross-border transactions and remittances. The expansion is part of Circle's ongoing strategy to make USDC more accessible globally, following partnerships with local banks and other institutions. (Crypto Briefing)
Google Cloud Launches Ethereum-Compatible RPC Service for Web3 Development
Google Cloud has introduced a new blockchain remote procedure call (RPC) service, enabling developers to access blockchain data and functionality through API calls. The service is compatible with the Ethereum mainnet and test networks, with plans to support more blockchains in the future. Positioned as a competitor to existing RPC providers like Infura and Alchemy, Google Cloud's service offers a free tier with up to 100 requests per second, catering to both startups and large enterprises looking for scalable blockchain solutions. (The Block)
Japan Explores Loosening Crypto Regulations Amid Growing Blockchain Interest
Japan is considering easing its crypto regulations as local firms, including Sony, Toyota, and Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, ramp up blockchain initiatives. While Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has prioritized Web3 and streamlined token listings and stablecoin rules, it's unclear if his potential successors will continue this approach. The industry is also advocating for tax reforms, as crypto gains are taxed up to 55%, compared to 20% for traditional investments. (Pymnts)
Worldcoin Pilots Facial Recognition for Increased Security in World App
Worldcoin is testing facial recognition technology for its World App, aiming to enhance security for users accessing tools like financial transactions and secure sign-ins. The feature, currently being piloted in select locations, ensures only individuals who have verified their World ID via Worldcoin's iris-scanning orbs can access the app. While Worldcoin has gained traction globally, its use of biometric data has faced scrutiny, particularly from regulators concerned with data privacy, as seen in previous issues in Colombia and Spain. (The Block)
