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Dell integrates Bitcoin payments on consumer, SMB sites in US

Dell said it's accepting the cryptocurrency on Dell.com in a pilot that partners the computer giant with the Bitcoin processor Coinbase.
Written by Natalie Gagliordi, Contributor

Dell announced Friday it has started to accept payments via Bitcoin for products available on Dell.com, including Alienware.

Dell said it's accepting the cryptocurrency for consumer and small business shoppers in a pilot that partners the computer giant with the Bitcoin processor Coinbase.

Much like in the case with Dish Network, which is also using Coinbase to process Bitcoin payments, it's likely the Bitcoins spent on Dell.com will be instantly converted into U.S. dollars to avoid devaluation issues.

While it seems from Dell's lengthy Bitcoin explanation that it's expecting some consumer concern regarding the digital currency, Dell and Coinbase seem utterly thrilled with their new relationship.

Dell flaunted the fact that the companies were able to integrate Bitcoin payments on Dell's system in only 14 days, and touted Coinbase as "one of the most secure, reputable and widely used bitcoin platforms in North America."

As for Coinbase, the processor posited: "Dell is the largest ecommerce company to officially accept bitcoin, with nearly $60 billion in annual sales."

Fred Ehrsam, co-founder of Coinbase, said in a statement:

"We've fostered a close partnership with the Dell team and that’s been instrumental in getting the Coinbase integration up and running in such a short timeframe. We look forward to continuing to support the team as they explore other ways to offer even more functionality when it comes to bitcoin payments."

No details yet on the length of the pilot or expansion plans if it goes well. For now, Dell.com shoppers can use Bitcoin to purchase products on its consumer, EPP or SMB sites in the US only.

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