Robocoin has simplified the registration process for new users of its ATMs, enabling them to first create an account online before ever visiting a machine.

By verifying an email address and phone number, customers will now be able to sign up and create a wallet via the firm's website.

This initial registration enables the user to transact with bitcoin only, however. To use fiat currency (and hence an ATM), full online verification must be carried out via a social media login and upload of an ID scan.

Previously, users had to endure a rather time-consuming process, which included attending an ATM to scan palm and ID, pose for a photograph and verify a phone number.

The firm says registering online gives users the ability to load bitcoin into their wallets before visiting a machine, thus letting them "instantly" withdraw cash.

The news follows rumours last month suggesting that Robocoin may be looking to expand the means by which it allows consumers to buy and sell bitcoin – possibly in a shift away from the technical difficulties of managing a hardware-based ATM network.