How to X402 (simplescraper.io)

Coinbase has introduced the x402 protocol, leveraging the long-reserved HTTP status code 402 "Payment Required" to facilitate micropayments for autonomous AI agents using US dollar-pegged stablecoins. This innovative framework allows agents to make seamless per-request payments for API and server resources, transforming the economic landscape of web interactions. By utilizing Layer 2 blockchains, specifically Base, x402 enables gasless transactions with minimal fees, eliminating traditional barriers like monthly subscriptions or credit card dependencies traditionally seen in API billing. This protocol is significant as it aligns with the rise of AI agents needing to interact with numerous APIs without cumbersome setups. x402 allows for a fully automated, stateless payment process where clients, servers, and facilitators operate independently while maintaining cryptographic trust. The integration of payment data within HTTP headers makes x402 compatible with existing infrastructure, enabling smooth adoption without disrupting current client operations. As it continues to evolve with multi-chain support and dedicated SDKs for developers, x402 stands to reshape how digital transactions occur on the web, making micropayments a practical reality.