Definition ∞ Machine to machine payments are automated financial transactions conducted directly between connected devices without human intervention. These payments are facilitated by programmable smart contracts and often utilize cryptocurrencies or digital tokens for efficient, trustless value transfer. They are foundational for the Internet of Things (IoT) economy, enabling devices to autonomously pay for services, resources, or data. Such systems reduce operational costs and increase transaction speed.
Context ∞ The current discussion around machine to machine payments centers on their potential to automate and optimize industrial and consumer interactions. A key debate involves establishing secure and interoperable protocols for device communication and payment execution. Future developments will likely involve widespread adoption in smart cities, autonomous vehicles, and supply chain management.
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