Cloudflare Unveils NET Dollar to Power Payments for the AI Internet

Cloudflare has announced the NET Dollar, a U.S. dollar-backed stablecoin designed to enable instant and secure payments across the AI-driven world. The move marks a major step for the connectivity cloud giant as it pushes toward a future where AI agents, creators, and developers transact seamlessly online.

What’s the Scoop?

• Big Idea: Cloudflare argues the ad- and bank-transfer-driven Internet business model is outdated. With AI agents increasingly managing tasks like booking flights or ordering groceries, the company says the web now needs programmable money that can move at Internet speed.
• Stable Backing: NET Dollar will be backed 1:1 with U.S. dollars and integrated into Cloudflare’s global network, giving developers and businesses access to fast, secure, and borderless payments.
• Use Cases: Cloudflare envisions NET Dollar powering microtransactions, pay-per-use models, and fractional payments. It hopes to help creators to earn directly for content, allow developers to monetize APIs, and empower AI agents to pay for goods/services automatically.
• Standards Support: To make integration easier, Cloudflare is contributing to open standards like the Agent Payments Protocol and x402, aimed at simplifying how Internet-native payments are sent and received.