Arc, an EVM-compatible Layer-1 blockchain associated with Circle, has selected MetaMask as its default wallet for user and developer onboarding. The integration will be pre-configured in MetaMask browser extensions and mobile apps, featuring native USDC display, as well as built-in bridge and swap capabilities.
The Arc network uses USDC as its native gas token, eliminating the need for users to hold volatile native assets. According to data from the testnet, which has been operational since October 2025, the average transaction cost is approximately $0.004. The chain utilizes a permissioned validator set and achieves transaction finality in under one second.
The mainnet launch is scheduled for September 16, 2026. At launch, the ecosystem will include partners such as Ledger, Fireblocks, and Binance Wallet. Furthermore, protocols including Aave, Morpho, and Uniswap are expected to integrate with the network. The testnet currently operates under Chain ID 5042002.
