Tempo, a blockchain project backed by Stripe and Paradigm, has officially launched. The network, initially teased as purpose-built for stablecoins, now also introduces tools for AI agent payments. Its new Machine Payments Protocol is designed to let autonomous AI programs execute transactions for services like data access or computing power without constant human oversight.
The project announced the launch of its highly-anticipated blockchain alongside new tools to support so-called machine payments. These are transactions executed by artificial intelligence agents, which are autonomous software programs designed to achieve specific goals.
Tempo aims to provide a standardized way for AI agents to coordinate payments for services by themselves. “Agents can already write code, coordinate services, retrieve data, and execute complex workflows across the internet,” Tempo stated, noting these systems increasingly need to transact.
The launch aligns with a broader industry pivot toward AI integration within crypto. Last month, former Ethereum Foundation co-director Tomasz Stańczak pushed for the $280 billion Ethereum blockchain to utilize AI for tasks like reviewing proposals and writing code.
Tempo’s Machine Payments Protocol allows AI agents to enter a session where they can continuously pay for services automatically within pre-defined limits. Transactions are aggregated into a single settlement, which Tempo claims helps the system scale without congestion.
The project has generated significant excitement and stacked top talent in its lead-up. Last month, Farcaster co-founders Dan Romero and Varun Srinivasan joined, following former Ethereum Foundation researcher Dankrad Feist and other high-profile additions.
Tempo has already inked over a dozen high-profile partnerships with firms including Anthropic, OpenAI, Mastercard, Visa, Nubank, and Revolut. The project was first announced in September with a premise focused on stablecoins as a core layer for internet commerce.
