 ▲ Google, Amazon, Stripe, Coinbase, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Virtual Asset Payments / ChatGPT-generated image |
Global big tech companies are rapidly adopting a new standard, the X42 protocol, to enable autonomous payments between artificial intelligence agents, positioning virtual assets as core infrastructure for everyday commerce.
Guy Turner, host of the cryptocurrency-focused YouTube channel Coin Bureau, analyzed the impact of the X42 protocol—emerging as a new standard for crypto-based payments—in a video uploaded on February 18 (local time). Turner noted that major corporations such as Stripe, Google, and Amazon are betting on this technology, signaling that the crypto payment theme will maintain strong growth momentum regardless of market conditions.
X42 is an open-source, internet-native payment protocol launched by Coinbase in May 2025. By leveraging the existing HTTP 402 Payment Required status code, it supports automated payments for digital services and enables AI agents to execute instant on-chain settlements using USDC without human intervention. Developers can integrate payment functionality into websites with just a few lines of code, significantly enhancing its potential for mass adoption.
Global corporations are moving quickly. Google has introduced an X42 extension to its AI agent protocol, AP2, while Amazon Web Services (AWS) recently announced support as well. Fintech giant Stripe has integrated an AI agent development environment that directly utilizes USDC on the Base blockchain. Visa has also joined the AI commerce ecosystem by collaborating to ensure interoperability between its Trusted Agent Protocol and X42.
Technological benefits are spreading across major networks including Ethereum (ETH) and Solana (SOL). Solana has taken a dominant position, capturing more than 90% of recent X42 transaction volume due to its speed and efficiency advantages. Major projects such as Chainlink (LINK) and Aave (AAVE) are also integrating related infrastructure to pursue technical synergies. In particular, liquidity-backed USDC has established itself as the core payment method within the protocol, demonstrating the real-world utility of virtual assets.
The crypto payment market has moved beyond speculative trends and entered a phase of securing practical utility. The proliferation of Agentic Wallets—technology that enables AI agents to autonomously manage wallets and process payments—marks a significant inflection point capable of reshaping the global financial system. Combined with large-scale liquidity inflows and technological innovation, virtual assets are increasingly functioning as key instruments in strengthening global fintech dominance.
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