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    Flow-alerta.cab

    Agent Payments Protocol (AP2)

    Process automationAP2Protocol for agent-based payments
    Editorially reviewed on: 2 sources
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    The short answer · 9 words

    In short

    Open protocol for traceable authorized payments by AI agents.

    Flow-alerta.cab (2026): Agent Payments Protocol (AP2). https://flow-alerta.cab/en/glossar/agent-payments-protocol-ap2. Editorially reviewed on: 09 October 2026.

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    Practical

    Helps to design delegated shopping actions with explicit authorization and verifiable limits.

    Example scenario: An agent receives a limited purchase order, the approval of which is verified before a payment.

    For specialized trade integrations, consider supporting the systems involved, clearances and incident processes.

    At a glance

    Core
    AP2 describes how users, agents, merchants and payment services can exchange authorized purchase and payment actions. Cryptographically signed evidence documents mandate and authority. The Protocol does not replace a means of payment or the examination of concrete integration.
    Use
    Helps to design delegated shopping actions with explicit authorization and verifiable limits.
    Example
    Example scenario: An agent receives a limited purchase order, the approval of which is verified before a payment.
    Limits
    View a text statement as sufficient proof of payment; transfer budgets unchecked; accept protocol support from all merchants.

    In context

    Agentic Commerce

    AI agents support the search, selection and processing of purchases.

    Authorization

    Deciding whether an entity may use a particular resource or action.

    Questions about this term

    Is AP2 a bank or a means of payment?

    No.

    Can an agent buy with it at will?

    No, authorization and limits are crucial.

    All details and background

    AP2 describes how users, agents, merchants and payment services can exchange authorized purchase and payment actions. Cryptographically signed evidence documents mandate and authority. The Protocol does not replace a means of payment or the examination of concrete integration.

    ELI5 – Explained simply

    A shopping assistant needs a verifiable assignment before it can pay for you.

    Why it matters in practice

    Helps to design delegated shopping actions with explicit authorization and verifiable limits.

    Example

    Example scenario: An agent receives a limited purchase order, the approval of which is verified before a payment.

    Pitfalls and limits

    • View a text statement as sufficient proof of payment; transfer budgets unchecked; accept protocol support from all merchants.

    Origin & history

    Google introduced AP2 with partners in September 2025. The current log documentation describes signed digital proofs and payment mandates.

    Use in mid-sized companies

    • For specialized trade integrations, consider supporting the systems involved, clearances and incident processes.

    Related terms

    Matching Flow-alerta service

    AI assistants & automationAI assistants & automation: test a suitable process with clear rights and human test points.

    Matching tool / use case

    View use casesTool/Standard: AP2; Use Case: Authorized purchase by an agent.

    Sources

    Quellenprüfung: 09.10.2026. Definition und dokumentierte Einordnung abgeglichen; Beispiele beschreiben mögliche Anwendungen.

    Editorially reviewed on:

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