Bitcoin is a digital currency that operates on a decentralized network of computers, without the need for intermediaries or central authorities. It is also a scarce and volatile asset that can be used as a store of value or a medium of exchange. Bitcoin has attracted the attention of many investors, enthusiasts, and critics, as well as some businesses that accept it as a form of payment. In this article, we will explore some of the businesses that acknowledge Bitcoin in various sectors, such as e-commerce, travel, gaming, and charity.
Amazon, the leading e-commerce giant, doesn't directly accept cryptocurrency payments. Yet, crypto enthusiasts can utilize Purse.io, an innovative platform facilitating Bitcoin spending on Amazon. Acting as an intermediary, Purse.io provides a workaround for users eager to use their Bitcoin for Amazon purchases. While Amazon itself hasn't integrated cryptocurrency payments, Purse.io offers a solution, allowing cryptocurrency holders to engage in transactions on the popular e-commerce platform using their digital assets.
AMC, known for its meme stock status, capitalized on the crypto craze by partnering with PayPal to accept Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. The company extended this feature to its mobile app, enabling users to pay for services with various cryptos. With around one-third of online payments in mid-2022 made in crypto, AMC's pro-crypto stance, coupled with a BitPay partnership, reflects its adaptability and success amid economic challenges, fueled by its popularity on social media platforms like Reddit and Twitter.
Wikipedia, the world's largest open-source encyclopedia, embraces the Bitcoin movement by accepting donations through this cryptocurrency. The non-profit Wikimedia Foundation, overseeing Wikipedia, utilizes BitPay as its payment platform to process these contributions. By incorporating Bitcoin, Wikipedia diversifies its funding sources and allows supporters to contribute to the platform's growth using this digital currency, showcasing a commitment to financial innovation in the realm of open knowledge.
PayPal, a global online payment system, streamlines digital transactions for users worldwide and is accepted by numerous online merchants. The platform introduced a crypto service, allowing users in the US and the UK to buy, sell, and hold cryptocurrencies. Despite its convenience, many users seek alternatives due to PayPal's high transaction fees and exchange rate margins. The company's foray into cryptocurrency reflects a growing trend in digital finance but prompts some users to explore more cost-effective options.
Overstock, a prominent online retailer operating for over two decades, has been accepting cryptocurrency payments since 2014, starting with Bitcoin and expanding to include altcoins like ETH, LTC, and BCH. Beyond retail, the company ventured into the blockchain sector, transforming its division into a blockchain-focused investment fund in 2021. Overstock's innovative move of providing a "digital dividend" to shareholders through airdropped security tokens establishes it as a trailblazer in crypto adoption, positioning itself at the forefront of emerging trends in the cryptocurrency market.
Starbucks, renowned for its coffee, doesn't directly accept Bitcoin, but its app, in collaboration with Bakkt, offers a workaround. Bitcoin owners can deposit funds through the app, facilitated by Bakkt's digital wallet. Bakkt swiftly converts Bitcoin into dollars, making it usable at Starbucks and affiliated partners. This integration allows Bitcoin users to seamlessly incorporate digital assets into their routine by using them for future coffee purchases at Starbucks through the mobile app.
Microsoft, the second-largest company globally embraces cryptocurrency payments, notably Bitcoin, since 2014. Customers can use Bitcoin to purchase a range of Microsoft products, including Xbox Live memberships, Office 365 subscriptions, and Windows OS, as well as movies and games from the Microsoft Store. While Microsoft has intermittently halted crypto payments, users are advised to check the current status on Microsoft's Help Centre before transactions, reflecting the evolving nature of cryptocurrency acceptance by major corporations.
Dell, a technology giant, recognized for laptops and computers, has accepted Bitcoin payments since 2014 through its partnership with Coinbase. Despite occasional halts due to Bitcoin's price volatility, customers can seamlessly purchase hardware and software with Bitcoin when support is active. The streamlined payment process, facilitated by Coinbase, enhances the user experience during operational periods.