#Bitcoin by Text: The Simplest Way to Use Digital Cash

Bitcoin via Text Message: The Simplest Way to Use Digital Cash

After exploring Bitcoin's history and purpose in our previous discussions, I wanted to share something practical that cuts through all the complexity - how to use Bitcoin as peer-to-peer digital cash through simple text messages.

This approach addresses what I believe is the biggest barrier to Bitcoin adoption: unnecessary complexity. When most people think about using cryptocurrency, they imagine complicated wallet setups, seed phrases, private keys, and confusing exchanges. But what if sending Bitcoin could be as simple as texting a friend?

In my recent demonstration with Margot, I showed exactly that. Using a service called TextBSV, I sent her a penny worth of Bitcoin in seconds. She didn't need to create a wallet first or download any apps - the system automatically generated everything needed when she received the funds. She then sent Bitcoin back to me just as easily.

This simplicity is revolutionary. Consider what happened:

1. Money changed hands instantly
2. No bank or payment processor was involved
3. The transaction cost was virtually zero
4. Both parties maintained privacy
5. The transaction was recorded on a permanent, immutable ledger

All of this happened through ordinary text messages on basic phones. No special apps required.

Why does this matter? Because financial freedom isn't just about investment opportunities - it's about having control over your own money. During our conversation, I mentioned how even powerful individuals have had their banking services revoked. When traditional financial systems can be weaponized against anyone for any reason, having alternatives becomes essential.

The text message method solves another crucial problem: the learning curve. If you want to introduce friends, family or customers to using Bitcoin as actual cash, asking them to understand wallets, keys and exchanges is a non-starter for most. But everyone knows how to text.

For those wanting to try this approach, you'll still need to obtain some Bitcoin first. In the video, I walked through using Orange Gateway, a service based in Iceland. While there are multiple ways to acquire Bitcoin, this provides a relatively straightforward on-ramp for beginners.

(Note: Since filming, I've learned that Orange Gateway now requires KYC verification for all customers. This wasn't the case when we recorded, and I wish it were different.)

What excites me most about this text message approach is how it returns to Bitcoin's original purpose - a peer-to-peer electronic cash system. Not a speculative investment, not "digital gold" to hoard, but an actual usable currency that allows people to transact directly without intermediaries.

I believe this simple use case - sending value through text messages - could be the catalyst for much broader adoption. When people experience the freedom and simplicity of true peer-to-peer transactions, the entire concept of digital cash begins to make sense in a way that investment narratives never could.

Check out the full video here.