TL;DR
- Block, Jack Dorsey’s company, announced the integration of Bitcoin payments into the Square platform, utilizing the Lightning Network for instant and low-cost transactions.
- This functionality is currently in a testing phase and is expected to roll out to all eligible merchants by 2026.
- This move could transform how small businesses accept payments, reinforcing the vision of Bitcoin as everyday money.
The retail revolution is closer than it seems. During the Bitcoin Conference 2025 in Las Vegas, Jack Dorsey surprised attendees by unveiling a new feature that promises to forever change how we interact with money. His company Block, which owns Square and Bitkey, has begun integrating Bitcoin payments directly into Square point-of-sale devices, using the Lightning Network to enable fast transactions with minimal fees.
At the event, attendees were able to make purchases from BTC Inc. using satoshis, proving that the technology is ready for the real world. This integration allows stores to accept Bitcoin payments without the need for new infrastructure. Implementation is expected to begin in the second half of 2025 and roll out globally by 2026, subject to local regulations.
Bitcoin as Everyday Currency for Commerce
Block’s approach goes beyond a mere experiment. This is not just an additional feature, it’s a long-term strategy to position Bitcoin as a payment tool as natural as a debit card. Thanks to the Lightning Network, Bitcoin payments are instant and significantly cheaper than traditional card transactions, offering major benefits to small merchants.
Additionally, Square will allow each seller to choose whether to keep the satoshis or automatically convert them to local currency, offering flexibility amid market volatility. This step follows other innovations from Block, such as the self-custody wallet Bitkey and the Bitcoin conversion system implemented in 2024.
Positive Impact on Global Crypto Adoption
According to recent data, Block holds more than 8,500 bitcoins in its treasury, establishing itself as one of the most committed public companies to the crypto ecosystem. This new integration reinforces its stance and sends a clear message: Bitcoin is not just a store of value, it can also be an efficient medium of exchange.
Jack Dorsey has been a tireless advocate of decentralized finance. His vision focuses on giving people back financial control, reducing reliance on intermediaries and excessive fees. By enabling thousands of merchants to accept Bitcoin so easily, Block is driving crypto adoption from the ground up, starting with everyday commerce.
The coming year will be decisive. If regulators are supportive and businesses respond positively, we could be witnessing one of Bitcoin’s most important milestones yet.