Did Coinbase create x402?
Yes. x402 is an open standard published by Coinbase that revives the long-dormant HTTP 402 "Payment Required" status code, using stablecoins (USDC) to settle payments over HTTP. Although Coinbase authored it, the spec is open and chain-agnostic — anyone can implement it without using Coinbase products.
Do I need a Coinbase account to use x402?
No. x402 is open. You can run a server, accept USDC, and verify payments with any compatible facilitator and wallet. Coinbase provides convenient tooling — the Coinbase Developer Platform (CDP) wallet, AgentKit, and a hosted facilitator — but they are optional, not required.
What is the Coinbase Developer Platform (CDP) for x402?
CDP offers building blocks that make x402 easier: programmable server/agent wallets, AgentKit for giving AI agents on-chain abilities, and a facilitator that verifies and settles payments so your server never touches chain logic. You can mix these with non-Coinbase components freely.
Is x402 tied to Base?
x402 is chain-agnostic, but Base — Coinbase’s Ethereum L2 — is the most common settlement network because of low fees, native USDC, and first-class Coinbase tooling. You can also settle on Solana, Ethereum and other chains.
Is there a Coinbase x402 token?
No. Neither Coinbase nor the protocol issues an x402 token. Payments use USDC. See our x402 token page for why, and to avoid impersonator coins.