Coinbase’s x402: Crypto payments over HTTP for AI and APIs

With protocols like Coinbase x402, HTTP 402 is being revived to enable native, programmable payments over the web using stablecoins like USDC.

The web was not really built with payments in mind, especially not for autonomous agents or machines. But with the rise of AI and decentralized finance (DeFi), the need for seamless, native digital payments has never been more urgent. 

Coinbase x402 announced a new open protocol designed to let APIs, apps and AI agents pay instantly using stablecoins like USDC (USDC), all via the familiar HTTP protocol.

Read more