Coinbase has launched Payments MCP, allowing AI agents such as Claude, Gemini, and ChatGPT to access blockchain wallets and perform crypto payments without API keys, marking a major step toward AI-driven autonomous commerce.
Coinbase has unveiled Payments MCP, a groundbreaking system that enables large language models (LLMs) like Claude, Gemini, and ChatGPT to autonomously manage cryptocurrency wallets, perform fiat on-ramps, and execute stablecoin payments.
Announced by the Coinbase Developer Platform via X (formerly Twitter), Payments MCP operates without the need for API keys or complex developer setups, making on-chain interaction accessible through simple natural language commands.
Built on the x402 Foundation initiative, a collaboration between Coinbase and Cloudflare, Payments MCP aims to standardize AI-driven payments.
The system leverages the Model Context Protocol (MCP), designed to securely connect AI agents to blockchain tools, including wallets and payment networks.
This innovation bridges the gap between mainstream AI models and the crypto economy, enabling AI to act as autonomous economic agents.
AI Agents Gain Autonomous Payment Power
Through Payments MCP, AI models can now create wallets, fund accounts, and execute transactions using only an email address sign-in, eliminating traditional barriers like API access.
Dan Kim, Coinbase’s Vice President of Business Development, described the platform's ability to enable "agentic commerce," where AI agents independently conduct economic activities.
Stablecoins, noted as ideal for these transactions, provide a secure and programmable infrastructure to support this autonomous activity.
Erik Reppel, Head of Engineering at Coinbase Developer Platform, emphasized that Payments MCP delivers a simple, accessible protocol.
He stated the initiative builds on long-standing ambitions for an internet-native payment standard. "Crypto is particularly well-suited for machines," Reppel said, highlighting how the system can transform AI’s interaction with online services via direct on-chain payments.
Simplifying Blockchain Interactions for AI
Payments MCP enables large language models to perform complex wallet operations, such as sending transactions, managing funds, and accessing onramps, all via natural language commands.
The platform supports local deployment and customization, prioritizing user control with configurable funding limits, approval thresholds, and session caps. This ensures transactions remain secure while maintaining speed and privacy.
The x402 protocol underpinning this system revives the concept behind the HTTP 402 Payment Required status, repurposing it as an open, internet-native payment standard for AI-driven transactions.
Coinbase’s vision is to create a seamless connection where AI agents can pay for digital services and APIs autonomously, marking a significant step toward machine-to-machine commerce.
This launch signifies a pivotal advancement in integrating artificial intelligence with blockchain technology, empowering AI tools to act beyond information processing to real economic participation through decentralized finance.
Key Topics
Crypto New Live
admin@cryptonewslive.org
Coinbase Payments MCP Empowers AI Wallet Access
Coinbase introduces Payments MCP, enabling AI models like Claude and Gemini to autonomously manage wallets and execute crypto payments.