You might be thinking: Alright Rustie, we’ve been talking a lot about Bitcoin wallets and how to manage your private keys, but how do I get bitcoins in the first place? Bitcoin’s not some magic internet money after all.
Well lucky for our students in Berkeley, we actually have Bitcoin ATMs a couple blocks from campus.
And for all you non-UC Berkeley folks, don’t worry, these are also available elsewhere! Bitcoin ATMs are pretty cool.
You first scan your QR code from a smartphone wallet app, or any other device (or piece of paper) that can display a QR code.
The important thing is that this QR code contains your Bitcoin address.
You then insert cash, press send, and then bitcoin is sent over! Just like that! Some Bitcoin ATMs work a bit differently, and instead of having you scan your QR code, they simply print out a paper wallet for you after you’ve paid your equivalent amount through cash, debit, or credit card.