Ethereum zkAPI launches private API payments on mainnet

10/5/2026

Ethereum zkAPI enables private prepayment for API access on mainnet Use zero-knowledge credits, short-lived keys, and a simpler way to pay

Ethereum’s zkAPI is now live on mainnet, offering a privacypreserving way to prepay for API access, including AI services. The system was developed with the Open Anonymity Project and announced by the Ethereum Foundation on Oct. 2, 2026. According to the foundation, users deposit funds into an Ethereum vault and use zeroknowledge proofs to show they have enough credit for API requests without exposing which deposits belong to them. zkAPI also issues shortlived API keys with spending limits, while prompts are sent directly to the service provider and billing is handled separately. The launch follows an earlier proposal from Ethereum researchers and cofounder Vitalik Buterin on zeroknowledge API usage credits. The release includes a local client, software development kit, and browserbased AI chat implementation, though it does not hide prompt content or all network metadata from providers.