Compilation: Felix, PANews

Recently, the x402 protocol, which gained immense popularity, has made new progress. The open-source payment protocol x402, incubated by Coinbase and designed specifically for AI agents, launched its V2 version on December 11. This version optimizes the foundation of V1, expanding from single-call payments to a unified internet payment layer.

x402 was initially released in May 2025, with the concept of embedding payments directly into HTTP using the long-idle 402 status code. In just a few months, x402 processed over 100 million payments from APIs, applications, and AI agents, supporting various application scenarios ranging from paid API calls to on-demand purchases of computing and data by autonomous agents.

Coinbase stated that this update restructured the protocol, making it more versatile, flexible, and easier to scale across networks, transmission methods, identity models, and payment types. It marks a shift in the protocol from "what it can do" to "how to seamlessly integrate with existing services."

Unified Payment Interface

x402 V2 introduces a standardized payment interface that connects blockchain networks and traditional payment systems. It supports multiple blockchains, including Base and Solana, while maintaining compatibility with ACH and card networks.

x402 V2 simplifies developer integration by creating a single format for identifying networks and assets. Developers can build cross-chain payment processes without complex adjustments or custom logic. This unified architecture supports flexible payment models, including subscriptions, prepaid, and multi-step billing.

The update also introduces dynamic "payTo" routing, which can route funds to specified addresses, roles, or callback-based payment logic based on requests. This feature is particularly suitable for marketplace platforms and multi-tenant APIs. Additionally, it enables dynamic pricing based on input data.

Scalable Architecture and Compatibility

The modular architecture introduced in V2 separates protocol specifications, SDK implementations, and payment service providers. This structure makes x402 V2 plugin-driven, allowing developers to add new blockchains or payment behaviors without changing the core protocol.

x402 V2 integrates lifecycle hooks, allowing builders to insert custom logic at key points in the payment process (such as before/after payment is sent, before/after settlement verification). These hooks support complex functionalities like conditional routing, fault recovery, and metrics monitoring. In this way, x402 V2 enhances efficiency and reliability in various financial environments.

The updated SDK supports multiple payment service providers simultaneously, allowing developers to prioritize networks or assets based on preference. This flexibility ensures smoother payment routing across blockchains and platforms. x402 V2 enhances interoperability, stability, and developer efficiency within a unified framework.

Wallet Access and Developer Experience

x402 V2 also restructured wallet and identity management. By introducing reusable wallet sessions, it eliminates repetitive payment verification for returning users or AI agents. This feature reduces transaction latency and improves cost-effectiveness in high-frequency payment environments.

The system includes a modular paywall component package that supports custom payment backends for EVM and Solana networks. This modular design encourages developers to build and adjust paywalls to fit different business models. It also lays the groundwork for future wallet-based identity standards (such as "Log in with X").

The x402 V2 update automates service discovery and metadata management through its Discovery extension. This allows service providers to index services, update prices, and manage routing without manual intervention.

Coinbase stated that the launch of x402 protocol V2 represents another significant milestone in the convenient flow of value on the internet, akin to the flow of information. By expanding compatibility, simplifying the developer experience, and supporting new payment and identity models, V2 transforms x402 into a more flexible payment layer that supports human, application, and agent-driven payments.

Related reading: Why is x402 the key protocol for implementing cryptocurrency payments?

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