Coinbase has introduced x402, an open-source protocol designed to let applications and autonomous systems settle stablecoin payments instantly and at low cost, underpinning micro-transactions such as fractional AI queries or streaming fees. The company unveiled the tool after a weekend hackathon in Brooklyn that showcased use-cases ranging from chatbots to peer-to-peer marketplaces. The launch comes as Washington’s new GENIUS Act establishes the first federal regulatory framework for dollar-backed stablecoins, requiring full-reserve backing and monthly disclosures. Analysts estimate the global stablecoin market at roughly $271 billion, with more than 161 million users. Circle’s USDC—the second-largest dollar stablecoin—has been gaining share; nearly half of all USDC transfers are now processed on the Solana network, according to blockchain data cited on 20 August. Rivals are also moving fast. Stripe is integrating its own stablecoin payment rails, while Securitize said BlackRock’s tokenized BUIDL fund is already supporting two yield-bearing stablecoins, USDS and USDtb. Together, the developments point to an industry push to make blockchain-based dollars a mainstream alternative to card networks and legacy bank rails.