Microsoft still accepts Bitcoin, apologizes for ‘inaccurate information’ on its site

In December 2014, Microsoft added Bitcoin as a payment option, courtesy of Bitcoin processor BitPay, for a variety of its gaming and mobile content. On Saturday, a simple message titled “Microsoft Store doesn’t accept Bitcoin” was spotted on Microsoft’s website, and naturally some interpreted that as meaning support for the digital currency had ended. We asked Microsoft for clarification, but the company only got back to us today — with an explanation that it was all a mistake.

As you can see in the screenshot below, the message appeared to be very straightforward: “You can no longer redeem Bitcoin into your Microsoft account. Existing balances in your account will still be available for purchases from Microsoft Store, but can’t be refunded.” The “Applies to Windows 10 and Windows 10 Mobile” header was a bit odd though, suggesting that maybe Bitcoin support would continue for other platforms.

Microsoft has now clarified to us that nothing has changed.

“We continue to support Bitcoin for adding money to your Microsoft Account which can be used for purchasing content in the Windows and Xbox stores,” a Microsoft spokesperson told VentureBeat. “We apologize for inaccurate information that was inadvertently posted to a Microsoft site, which is currently being corrected.”

It’s not clear how the discrepancy occurred. Microsoft also isn’t sharing how many of its customers actually use the payment option.

But we do know that all the speculation surrounding the implications of a major tech company ditching Bitcoin are unnecessary. It has been a tough year for Bitcoin. At least for now though, Microsoft isn’t contributing to its struggles.