SAN FRANCISCO: U.S. multinational Dell, the world's third-largest PC manufacturer, said it has begun accepting bitcoin payments for purchases on the company's website, giving a new boost to that digital form of currency.

Dell, whose annual revenue is roughly $57 billion, becomes the largest company to accept bitcoins, surpassing Dish Network and Expedia, which began accepting that new payment option in May and June, respectively.

"Now you can buy digital with digital -- starting (Friday) we're accepting bitcoin on Dell.com," the company said on its website, touting the "choice and flexibility this payment option offers".

Individuals and businesses will be able to purchase computer equipment and accessories thanks to Dell's agreement with Coinbase, a digital platform for buying, using and accepting bitcoin currency.

"Bitcoin payments can be made easily from anywhere in the world, and offer reduced payment processing costs," Dell said.

The company added that users have complete control over their bitcoin, telling customers in a Q&A page on its website that "your bitcoin account isn't tied to any financial institutions, can't be frozen and carries lower transaction fees than most major credit cards".

As part of a promotion, Dell is offering customers who use bitcoin a 10 percent discount on purchases of the company's Alienware gaming laptop.

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