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Stripe-Backed Tempo Launches Mainnet and Machine Payments Protocol for AI Agents

The payments-focused blockchain introduces a rail‑agnostic standard that lets software authorize and settle autonomous microtransactions.

Overview

  • Tempo activated its payments Layer‑1 on Mar. 18, moving from a December testnet to live stablecoin settlement with sub‑second finality and no native token, with fees payable in major stablecoins via TIP‑20.
  • Co‑developed with Stripe, the Machine Payments Protocol standardizes how agents request, authorize, and settle payments, using session-based streaming to bundle high‑frequency micropayments.
  • Visa extended MPP to support card payments, Lightspark added Bitcoin Lightning support, and Stripe enabled cards, wallets, and other methods, keeping the protocol payment‑rail agnostic.
  • Tempo published a directory of 100+ integrated services and cited early partners including Anthropic, OpenAI, Klarna, Mastercard, Visa, Nubank, Shopify, DoorDash, and Standard Chartered; Klarna said it plans to launch a stablecoin on Tempo.
  • Built for enterprise use, the chain emphasizes ISO 20022 compliance, EVM compatibility, and cross‑border B2B flows, as incumbents intensify efforts with moves like Mastercard’s BVNK deal and Visa’s agent‑payment tooling.