Looking at what's coming in 2026, one of the most compelling shifts we're likely to see is AI agents operating with true autonomy on-chain. Emerging protocols like x402 and ERC-8004 are poised to fundamentally reshape how autonomous systems interact with blockchain networks.

The breakthrough here is straightforward: these protocols enable AI agents to independently pay for services and instantly verify their reputation directly on-chain. No intermediaries, no delays. An AI agent can now execute transactions, prove its track record, and access new services in a seamless flow. This unlocks a whole new category of possibility—imagine intelligent bots autonomously participating in DeFi, managing assets, or providing specialized services without human intervention at every step.

It's bold, sure. But the infrastructure pieces are falling into place, and the incentive structures make sense. This isn't sci-fi anymore; it's engineering.