Square has started letting select sellers accept Bitcoin payments directly using the Lightning Network on its POS app.
Merchants using Square can now receive Bitcoin or instantly convert it to dollars with no new hardware required.
This step could shift Bitcoin from being a store of value to a real payment method used in daily US retail transactions.
Block Inc.'s payment unit Square has started onboarding merchants for its new Bitcoin payment feature. The move allows sellers to accept Bitcoin directly through Square’s Point of Sale system. Transactions are processed using the Lightning Network. The POS rollout follows several months of development and testing.
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The new feature does not require any additional hardware. It operates on the existing infrastructure of Square that makes the process smooth to the already established sellers. The merchants can choose to retain the Bitcoin or exchange it immediately to the U.S. dollar at the time of check out. This flexibility eliminates a major Bitcoin integration into everyday operations.
Improved Payment Experience Through Lightning Network
The integration of the Lightning Network with Square resolves some of the core problems with Bitcoin payments. It lowers transaction costs and eliminates network congestion delays. Payments settle almost instantly.
Volatility risks are also reduced. Merchants are able to convert Bitcoin into dollars at the point of sale. This gives them more control and they are able to safeguard their revenues against price changes.
The integration delivers a faster and cheaper experience for both sellers and customers. It brings Bitcoin closer to practical retail use, especially in everyday settings.
Strategic Timing Amid Bitcoin Market Surge
This evolution comes when the cryptocurrency market is gaining a lot of momentum. Bitcoin is trading at over $118,620 in 2025. ETF inflows and institutional demand contribute to market growth.
Square’s move could extend this momentum into retail commerce. It may encourage more merchants to consider Bitcoin as a real payment option. While Bitcoin remains popular as a store of value, this marks a shift toward its use as a currency.
The broader rollout is expected in 2026. Only a few sellers will be integrated into the early phase. Its early adoption can contribute to its further acceptance in near future.
Jack Dorsey’s Long-Term Bitcoin Vision Moves Forward
Block co-founder and former Twitter CEO, Jack Dorsey, has been an avid supporter of Bitcoin adoption. He perceives Bitcoin as the internet native currency. This rollout brings that vision a step closer. Meanwhile, Block Inc is set to join S&P 500 index today to replace Hess Corp which was recently acquired by Chevron.
Square serves over 4 million sellers and handles more than $200 billion in annual payments. This scale could play a major role in driving Bitcoin use in U.S. retail.
If widely adopted, Square’s Bitcoin integration could transform how consumers use digital currencies. It may also push Bitcoin beyond investment use and into practical daily transactions.
