Microsoft has quietly begun accepting Bitcoin payments in the U.S., Digital Spy said.

Customers in North America can now use the digital currency to add funds to their Microsoft account and purchase Xbox software and other digital products.

The news, which was brought to light by Reddit users, has had a positive impact on the value of Bitcoin, causing it to surge by around $20.

Bitcoin received a boost back in October when CeX became the first UK retailer with a major high street presence to support the crypto-currency.

Tech companies include PayPal and Google have also offered their backing, with the latter installing a Bitcoin ATM on its London campus.

Although Microsoft is allowing users to top up their accounts via the currency, it is not accepting Bitcoin payments directly or allowing customers to purchase hardware with it.