Bitcoin and 3D printing are two technologies that are based on similar ideologies. Just like Bitcoin allows for the removal of the middle man and the added fees associated with monetary transactions, 3D printing also removes the middle man by allowing individuals and businesses to manufacture and prototype within their own homes or offices. Both technologies could be regarded as symbols of freedom and self-reliance, while also acting as enablers of innovation and transformation.

As both technologies continue to develop, there seems to be an ever increasing convergence between the two. Whether 3D printing companies are using the cryptocurrency to seek funding, have decided to accept the currency as a method of payment, or, in the case of MecklerMedia, host trade shows related to both technologies, there is no doubt that the future of commerce and manufacturing will be linked to 3D printing and Bitcoin.

With yet more evidence that the two technologies continue to converse, 3D Hubs, the world’s largest network of 3D printers, has today announced a major partnership with Bitcoin payment service provider BitPay. Via Adyen, a global provider of online, mobile, and point-of-sale payment solutions, 3D Hubs will now be able to integrate Bitcoin payments into their platform, enabling any one of 3D Hubs’ more than 13,000 networked printers to be used in exchange for the cryptocurrency.

Last month, Adyen, which processed over $25 billion in global transactions last year, partnered with BitPay to help spread the acceptance of Bitcoin to some of the largest companies on the planet. This set in motion the wheels leading to the Adyen/BitPay/3D Hubs partnership.

“This partnership connects Bitcoin,­ a decentralized currency,­ to 3D Hubs’ decentralized manufacturing network, further strengthening the global movement towards decentralized industry,” writes the company.

As 3D printing becomes more widespread, and 3D Hubs’ network continues its rapid expansion, such a partnership seems to be coming at just the right time, as it enables transactions to take place with as little friction as possible, saving time and money, and allowing for a greater numbers of possible entrants into the 3D printing space. We’ve seen a tremendous amount of growth within both the Bitcoin and 3D printing spaces over the last year. This partnership should further that growth and extend the availability of both technologies to over a billion people who are within 10 miles of any one of the hubs listed at 3D Hubs.

Let us know your thoughts on this cryptocurrency integration with 3D Hubs. Will this news convince you to consider using either 3D Hubs or Bitcoin more often? Discuss in the 3D Hubs BitPay Partnership forum thread on 3DPB.com.

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