Gusto Enables Instant International Contractor Payments with USDC on Base

**World Mobile Team** has launched a decentralized mobile network that allows users to own and operate infrastructure. **Key Features:** - Coverage spans 99% of the USA and 60+ countries - Users can deploy AirNodes to extend network coverage - Node operators earn rewards for participation - Built on Base blockchain The network represents a shift from traditional carrier-controlled infrastructure to a **user-owned model**. Anyone can contribute to network expansion by deploying hardware, creating a globally distributed telecommunications system. This approach aligns with DePIN (Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Networks) principles, where physical infrastructure is owned and operated by participants rather than centralized entities.

Base is launching infrastructure to train robots onchain, marking a significant step toward scaling physical AI applications beyond digital environments. **Key developments:** - Developers can now use Base's blockchain infrastructure to train and coordinate physical robots - This builds on Base's existing AI agent tools, extending capabilities from digital to physical world applications - The initiative aims to create scalable systems for real-world robotics deployment This follows Base's recent workshop on building autonomous AI agents onchain, showing continued expansion of their AI infrastructure offerings.

Base is accepting applications for its Base Batches accelerator program, seeking 15 teams to develop onchain applications. **Program Benefits:** - Mentorship from experienced industry professionals - Access to the Base Ecosystem Fund - Opportunity to pitch at Demo Day to Silicon Valley venture capitalists The program follows a previous round that attracted over 700 applicants, with 40 teams selected to pitch at a Demo Day event. Base Batches aims to support the development of practical onchain applications and connect builders with funding opportunities. Interested teams can apply through the program's application process.

Base DevRel team is hosting a hands-on workshop focused on **ERC-8004**, Ethereum's new standard for trustless AI agents. **What you'll learn:** - How to build and deploy autonomous AI agents onchain - Using onchain identity and reputation systems - Working with validation registries - Managing AI agents with Base's developer tools ERC-8004 enables decentralized AI agent interactions and establishes trustless commerce on Ethereum. The workshop provides practical experience with this emerging standard. [Register for the workshop](https://luma.com/gvjofa1t)

**Major Developments This Week** - **Base Ecosystem Job Network** goes live via @hirechain_io with roles across the ecosystem - **THE MUSICAL** becomes first Base-backed film selected for Sundance U.S. Dramatic Competition - **Base Pay** launches one-step onchain payments on Shopify with open standards **Key Launches** - **@virtuals_io** debuts BaseSolana Bridge for cross-chain agent economy - **@withportrait** removes registration fees, making onchain identity free - **@districtxyz** announces $1M Builder Fund - **@riftdex** enables native BTC/ERC20 trading with low gas costs **Infrastructure Updates** - Ethereum ships PeerDAS upgrade for cheaper rollup fees - Multiple Solana-Base bridges launch via @flaunchgg and @RelayProtocol - @horizenglobal mainnet goes live as privacy-focused appchain **Mini Apps Expansion** - @joinbond featured as spotlight app for creator staking - @MetaLend_DeFi and @WowmaxExchange launch lending and trading apps - @Wishwish_art builds onchain popmart with AR/VR utility Base continues expanding its ecosystem with job opportunities, entertainment partnerships, and cross-chain connectivity.