Block launches real-time bitcoin payments in Las Vegas

In the United States, at the Bitcoin 2025 event this week, Block, the financial services company led by Jack Dorsey, is piloting a new approach to cryptocurrency usage by implementing real-time bitcoin payments. This initiative allows attendees at the event to scan and use bitcoin to purchase merchandise, such as T-shirts, hoodies, and hats, at a pop-up store situated inside The Venetian. The system utilized for these transactions is based on the Lightning Network, a solution designed to facilitate faster and lower-cost transfers away from the traditional blockchain methods. The introduction of this feature builds upon Square’s existing “Bitcoin Conversions” tool, which was launched in the previous year. This tool enables merchants to automatically convert a portion of their sales into bitcoin, promoting cryptocurrency adoption among small businesses. Miles Suter, who is an influential figure at Block and has been with the company since its early days of Cash App’s bitcoin integration, noted that this new payment option is a logical progression for the company within its long-term vision. Block intends to gradually expand this bitcoin payment capability to all eligible Square sellers, with full implementation expected by 2026, pending regulatory approval. As the legislative landscape evolves, especially concerning stablecoin regulations, Block sees its initiative as part of a broader strategy aimed at making bitcoin a viable and accepted form of everyday currency, enhancing the payment options available for small businesses. However, the perception of bitcoin as a currency rather than a store of value still exists among some individuals. Suter addressed these concerns by recalling the hesitation encountered when Cash App first introduced bitcoin trading, suggesting that innovation often requires overcoming skepticism. His remarks indicate a firm belief in the necessity of decentralized currency for the future of the digital economy, positioning bitcoin as the most suitable candidate to fulfill that role. By creating a comprehensive suite of tools designed to accept, convert, and manage bitcoin, Block is actively working to ensure that businesses can embrace cryptocurrency safely and efficiently.