An independent inventor has just received a patent for a digital-currency-enabled vending machine. The vending machine allows users to make purchases directly from their mobile devices. 

Each vending machine makes use of a control system communicating over the Internet with a remote digital currency system. A digital-currency processing system then executes transactions, storing the transaction data in a storage repository. Once stored, the vending machine dispenses the purchased item. While the vending machines would initially function using a bitcoin network, support for additional cryptocurrencies is highly likely.

Bitcoin ATMs have already made their way into the market, enabling users to purchase a wide variety of items, including beer, cannabis, and vehicles. As cryptocurrency’s mainstream acceptance continues to grow, vending machines offering cryptocurrency purchase options will replace the outdated ones across the globe.