Coinbase has just announced the launch of x402, a new open-source payment system that makes digital payments for APIs, content, and other digital services easier and automated. This new development promises to revolutionize the way clients interact with digital service payments, as x402 eliminates the need for subscriptions, API keys, and manual transactions, replacing them with instant, pay-per-use payments using stablecoins like USDC.
Why Does It Matter?
Today, the overwhelming majority of online payments require users to pay with a credit card for subscriptions. X402 sort of removes some of that friction, enabling instant pay-per-use transactions, stimulating a fairer and quicker way for users, developers, and AI agents to access digital services without long-term commitments.
In a sense, this new payment method also incentivizes development growth in the SAAS market, as it allows software providers to monetize their services more efficiently. Instead of relying on subscription models, SaaS companies can now offer pay-per-use pricing.
Reviving a Forgotten Internet Feature
Most people don’t know that the internet has had a built-in system for handling digital payments since the early days of HTTP. One of the standard status codes used in web communication is HTTP 402 “Payment Required”, a feature that has remained mostly unused for decades—until now.
x402 finally activates HTTP 402, turning it into a real payment mechanism for AI agents and websites. When an API or online service requires payment, instead of forcing users to sign up or enter credit card details, the system sends a 402 request and the AI or user pays instantly in stablecoins, making payments seamless, fast, and automated.
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