Crypto
Aptos Empowers AI Agents with GPU Rentals and Stablecoin Settlements
Aptos is building infrastructure for AI agents to rent GPUs and settle payments in stablecoins through its x402 payment protocol and partnership with io.net.
The x402 protocol enables micropayments between machines, allowing agents to pay per API call or compute cycle. Since launching in May 2025, the x402 ecosystem has processed over 100 million payments, with USDC dominating at over 99% of settlements.
Aptos CEO Avery Ching emphasized that stablecoins represent the optimal medium for agent-to-agent transactions due to programmable spending controls and auditability. The partnership with io.net's Agent Cloud enables AI agents to rent GPU resources, with smart contracts handling terms and USDC handling money.