By now, you’ve probably heard all about Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies.
That includes the wild ride that saw the price of Bitcoin go from around $9,300 this time last year, to a high of $65,000 in April, to around $31,000 now. There’s no denying that crypto is a major thing in the world of high finance and high-stakes trading.
But what you probably didn’t know is that there’s a whole real-world infrastructure that goes along with Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies. This includes Bitcoin ATMs, which give you the option to buy crypto or cash them out for fiat, government-issued money.
So, let’s look at some of the services that a crypto ATM offers.
What Is a Cryptocurrency ATM?
Let’s start by explaining just what Bitcoin ATMs are and what they do.
There are a number of side businesses and satellite industries that have cropped up in the wake of the cryptocurrency craze. One of the most interesting and lasting of these side-industries is the Bitcoin kiosk, which has sprouted up in major metropolitan areas the world over.
A Bitcoin ATM is very similar to a traditional ATM. The only difference is that it is restricted to financial transactions involving Bitcoin, and increasingly other cryptocurrencies, such as Ether and Litecoin.
That means that you can use these ATMs for banking Bitcoin, such as buying new Bitcoins or selling them, as well as cashing out. Nowadays, they even works as a gift card kiosk, allowing you to buy and sell gift cards.
As far as the hardware is concerned, again, Bitcoin ATMs are quite similar to regular ATMs. They often come with a touchscreen monitor, QR scanner, and bill acceptors and dispensers for cash transactions.
So How Do Bitcoin ATMs Work?
Using a Bitcoin kiosk is quick and easy, and if you know how to use a traditional ATM, you shouldn’t have any problem.
There are a few preliminary steps involved in using a Bitcoin ATM. For instance, you’ll need a digital wallet, which is the equivalent of a bank account. When using the ATM, you’ll also first need to verify your identity, which often involves inputting a verification code received via mobile phone.
Once this is done, it comes down to deciding which kind of transaction you want to make. Buying a cryptocurrency is as easy as inserting cash into the ATM, which is then converted into an equivalent amount of digital asset, depending on the current going rate.
Selling Bitcoin is a little different. You begin by signing into your account, and then determining how much Bitcoin or other cryptocurrency you wish to sell.
The next step can take some time. This is because the transaction must be verified through the blockchain before it can be completed and your cash dispensed.
In any case, when the transaction is complete, you’ll receive a notification and then you can get your cash.
All You Need to Know About Bitcoin Kiosks
Bitcoin ATMs have turned out to be a valuable asset for those interested in trading cryptocurrencies. It streamlines the process, and allows for easy purchases and quick cash-outs.
So, the next time you need to make a Bitcoin transaction, make things easy and visit your nearest Bitcoin ATM.
And while you’re here, please check out the rest of our site for informative articles like this one.