A new protocol created by Coinbase Cryptocurrency Exchange, called X402, suggests that software and web service agents can pay and collect online autonomously without records or subscriptions.
Open source was announced last May, and it is the standard for digital payments and is trying to change the path Internet services can be monetized.
The proposal is based on the HTTP 402 code known as “Payment Required” (Required Payment), a protocol used for communication between customers and servers on the Internet.
According to his white paper, “X402 is an open payment standard that allows artificial intelligence agents and web services to autonomously pay for access to APIs, digital data and services.” Those qualities Eliminate the need to use an access keythe subscription or manual payment process.
In fact, any application can allow payment for use “only a line of code”. The system is primarily designed Works using Stablcoins USDCguarantees immediate liquidity and stable prices related to the dollar.
How does X402 Coinbase work?
The protocol created by Coinbase uses HTTP 402 status to indicate that payment is required for requests to access the API (application programming interface).
If the client does not send a transaction, he will respond and receive a message «402 payment required» Invite payment and resurrection. This mechanism allows the web protocol itself to become a monetization channel, replacing the need for records, passwords, or private keys.
The white paper also explains that payments will be made On-chain (Inside the chain), no instantaneous liquidation and no fees associated with it.
Among the characteristics that stand out from the official X402 website are:
- No Commission: The protocol does not charge users or service providers.
- Instant liquidation: Payments reach the receiver’s wallet in seconds, as opposed to traditional banking systems where certification can take several days.
- Technical Neutrality: X402 does not rely on any particular network, allowing it to adapt to a variety of stable networks and cryptocurrencies.
- Security and Opening: Because it is an open standard, anyone can implement or extend without relying on centralized suppliers.
The approach refers to what the company calls it “Machine to Machine Payment”that is, a transaction Autonomous Methods Between Software Agents.
In this scheme, artificial intelligence (AI) can be used to create, for example Pay automatically, Or, perform some type of task without the need for the user to intervene in the process.
The X402 standard is based on Unique Internet Architecture. As explained on the official project site, “activates HTTP 402 code on the server and works through the headers and status codes of your existing infrastructure.”
In fact, that means that No major changes are required It will be implemented on an already operational site or service.
For developers, integration is reduced to a simple process, but for users, they can pay directly for content and services without the need to open personal data or additional accounts.
Together, the X402 is presented as a commitment to the Internet model. The transaction will run immediatelythere is some degree of autonomy that allows for the expansion of digital payments for emerging applications such as artificial intelligence and online trade.
