New Linux Foundation project aims to make payments native to AI workflows
The Linux Foundation has launched the x402 Foundation, a new industry body that will oversee the x402 payment protocol, an open standard designed to let AI agents, applications, and APIs pay for digital services over HTTP.
The x402 protocol, originally developed by Coinbase, embeds payment capabilities directly into web interactions, allowing AI agents, APIs, and applications to send and receive payments as part of standard HTTP requests rather than through separate checkout or billing systems, according to the Linux Foundation. The protocol supports multiple payment types, from traditional cards to stablecoins.
“Under the neutral governance of the Linux Foundation, the x402 Foundation will allow developers, financial institutions, cloud providers, and other community members to collaboratively shape the protocol’s development,” the Linux Foundation said in a statement. “This open structure ensures that payments remain highly secure and adaptable, supporting multiple payment types, from traditional cards to stablecoins, without vendor lock-in.”
