TL;DR
- Coinbase launched x402, a protocol that enables instant stablecoin transfers over HTTP, integrating payments directly into web interactions.
- The initiative allows AI agents to operate autonomously, contracting services, accessing resources, and paying in real time.
- x402 was developed in collaboration with AWS, Circle, Anthropic, and Near Protocol.
Coinbase unveiled an initiative that could revolutionize the way applications, APIs, and artificial intelligence agents interact with services and resources on the internet. The company announced the launch of x402, a payment protocol that enables instant stablecoin transfers directly over the HTTP protocol, which is used in everyday web browsing.
Unlike traditional payment systems, this protocol integrates value transfers into web interactions themselves. Users no longer need to rely on cards, bank transfers, or subscriptions to complete transactions.
How Does Coinbase’s Initiative Work?
The operation of x402 leverages an idea abandoned years ago: the HTTP 402 “Payment Required” status code, originally designed to enable online payments but never adopted as a standard. Coinbase revives this concept and adapts it to build a native payment system for the internet.
The potential of this technology is vast. AI agents will be able to use it to act independently, acquiring resources or accessing services without human intervention. This will eliminate the need for prepaid credits or manually managed accounts. Additionally, these systems will be able to provision hardware, pay for databases, or purchase services from other AI agents in real time, all managed autonomously.
Who’s Behind the Project?
Coinbase developed this project alongside partners such as AWS, Circle, Anthropic, and Near Protocol, a blockchain focused on AI-powered applications. The proposal is also attractive to software developers and content creators, as it enables new ways to monetize digital services. Applications could charge based on actual usage, and creators would have alternatives to monthly subscriptions or minimum credit card payments.
From a technical standpoint, x402 requires minimal code integration to function and enables smooth transactions between software and humans. This flexibility paves the way for an automated economy in which intelligent programs can independently discover, negotiate, and consume resources. Coinbase seeks to reduce reliance on legacy systems and reshape digital commerce for an environment driven by intelligence and automation.
