The world's first Bitcoin debit card is launched by Xapo

On April 25, 2014, the world’s first Bitcoin debit card launched. The product was introduced by Xapo, a company specializing in Bitcoin wallets and storage solutions.
 

The card functioned by debiting Bitcoin directly from the user’s Xapo wallet, allowing for seamless transactions at any location where MasterCard was accepted, both online and in physical stores. Although it was not a partnership with MasterCard, the card could be used on its network, which marked a notable advancement in the usability of Bitcoin for everyday transactions.
 

The launch of the Xapo Debit Card was a response to a common frustration among Bitcoin users: the difficulty of spending their digital currency for everyday purchases. With this card, users could now enjoy the spending freedoms akin to those provided by traditional debit cards, bridging the gap between Bitcoin and the established realm of fiat currencies.
 

Despite some initial confusion regarding the relationship between Xapo and MasterCard, the product launch went ahead as planned. Xapo clarified that they were working with an undisclosed bank to issue the open-loop debit card and were in discussions with credit card networks to power the offering.