Stripe adds x402 integration for USDC agent payments on Base

Stripe has introduced a preview of machine payments, integrating the x402 protocol to allow developers to charge AI agents directly using USDC stablecoin transactions on the Base network. This system leverages the PaymentIntents API so businesses can programmatically charge agents for services like API usage and HTTP requests. The x402 protocol, developed by Coinbase, utilizes the HTTP 402 "Payment Required" status code to enable onchain payments within standard web requests, addressing the needs of agents for microtransactions and low-latency finality. Stripe handles traditional financial aspects like sales tax and reporting through existing tools. Concurrently, CoinGecko implemented x402 for its API endpoints, allowing autonomous agents to fetch crypto data for a flat rate of $0.01 USDC per request without needing an API key or account.

(Source：The Block)