According to Decrypt, Ethereum now supports payments for artificial intelligence model queries without revealing user identity. The platform uses its zkAPI feature, allowing users to prepay in USDC and interact with AI models through cryptographic proofs. These proofs verify that a request is valid without exposing either the user’s identity or details about the specific query. No single party—neither the user nor the service provider—can access both pieces of information simultaneously. The system relies on zero-knowledge cryptography to ensure privacy during transaction verification.
Users begin by depositing USDC into their wallet via zkAPI, which remains associated with their cryptographic identity but is not disclosed in queries. When they request an AI model response, the system generates a proof that confirms the request’s validity and eligibility for service—without revealing who made the request or what was asked. The service provider receives only the verified proof and can fulfill the query without accessing identifying details. This design aims to protect user anonymity while maintaining operational integrity for AI providers.
