Stripe unveiled Link, a digital wallet enabling users to authorize autonomous AI agents to make purchases through secure approval flows. The wallet connects cards, bank accounts, and subscriptions.
Stripe introduced Link, expanding its payments infrastructure to accommodate autonomous AI systems. The wallet allows users to store payment methods—credit cards, bank accounts, and subscription details—then grant AI agents controlled spending permissions.
The key feature is approval flows. Rather than giving agents unlimited access, users can set parameters and review transactions before they're processed. This addresses a central concern around autonomous AI: maintaining human oversight while allowing machines to execute tasks independently.
Link integrates with Stripe's existing payment ecosystem, letting merchants accept Link-based payments from both human users and AI agents. The wallet handles authentication and transaction authorization.
The move reflects growing interest in AI agents handling real-world tasks. As large language models and autonomous systems become more capable, the need for secure payment mechanisms grows. Link aims to bridge that gap by providing a dedicated payment tool designed for both human and machine users.
Stripe has positioned itself as a infrastructure provider for emerging technologies. Previous expansions included crypto payments and embedded financial services. Link continues this trajectory, acknowledging that AI agents will increasingly need to participate in commerce.
The approval flow mechanism distinguishes Link from traditional wallets. Users maintain control over how much agents can spend and what transactions they authorize, reducing fraud risk and maintaining trust in autonomous systems.
Stripe did not announce specific pricing for Link or details about rate limits on agent transactions. The wallet launches to merchants using Stripe's platform, with wider availability expected.
The announcement comes as companies race to commercialize AI agents for tasks ranging from customer service to logistics. Payment infrastructure has lagged behind AI capability development—Link addresses that gap directly.
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