Stripe uses Base AI agent x402 payment protocol

Stripe has launched a new payment system designed for artificially intelligent agents, allowing them to automatically pay for digital services using cryptocurrencies.

Stripe Product Manager Jeff Weinstein revealed the feature on February 11th, and it’s currently in preview. This update adds support for Base, an Ethereum-based blockchain network for the x402 payment protocol.

Through this system, AI agents can quickly and easily make small payments using USD Coin ($USDC) stablecoin. Developers can use Stripe’s built-in tools to bill agents for services such as data access, processing power, and API calls, eliminating the need for manual billing and traditional subscriptions.

Built for machine-to-machine payments

Weinstein said current payment systems are primarily designed for humans and are not well-suited to automated software. He noted that AI agents need fast, low-cost, and always-available payment rails that work without human supervision.

With the new system, businesses create standard Stripe Payment Intents. Stripe assigns a unique wallet address to every transaction. Once your AI agent sends funds to that address, you can monitor the payment in real-time using your Stripe dashboard, via webhooks, or using our API.

Once the transaction is confirmed, the funds will be deposited into the merchant’s Stripe balance, just like a regular payment. Stripe’s current infrastructure also manages tax reporting, refunds, and compliance tools.

The system relies on x402, an open protocol that brings back the old HTTP “402 Payment Required” status code. When an agent attempts to access a paid service, they receive a payment request. After sending $USDC Base automatically allows access.

Base offers fast payments and low fees, so payments can be completed in seconds. This makes the setup suitable for frequent, low-value transactions, such as paying per request or per usage.

Stripe also released an open-source command-line tool called “purl” and sample code in Python and Node.js to help developers test machine payments.

Expanding the agent economy

The launch reflects Stripe’s increasing focus on what it calls the “agent economy,” where software programs operate independently and manage their own finances. These agents are expected to purchase data, computing resources, and digital services without human approval.

The company said more protocols, currencies and blockchain networks will be added in the future. Currently, support is focused on: $USDC on Base provides stability and predictable pricing.

Industry observers see the move as another sign that AI, fintech and cryptocurrencies are becoming more closely linked. Instead of relying on monthly plans or prepaid credits, you can now price your services on a per-action, per-second, or per-request basis.