A Chicago-based bitcoin start-up, Glidera has launched its long-awaited service of multi-signature wallets that can be integrated within other bitcoin applications.

Glidera offers an API for bitcoin wallet developers that will enable users to not only store cryptocurrency in a bitcoin wallet but also to buy and sell bitcoin within the same application. This is achieved through a direct connection with a bank account. The bank transfers are made through the U.S. ACH (Automated Clearing House) system, which ensures low cost transactions. Glidera also claims that the new service meets the regulatory requirements. The start-up sees itself as a bridge between the traditional financial system and the digital currency industry.

The start-up is planning to share revenue with app developers who choose to integrate the service. The fee for using Glidera API is 1%. Glidera has not revealed yet which wallet providers are already partnering with the new service.

Glidera was founded in 2013 by David Ripley, previously Principal at The Boston Consulting Group (BCG), and Michael Xakellis. In January 2015, Ripley took part in the North American Bitcoin Conference in Miami where he expressed his concerns about the security of bitcoin wallets for mainstream users. Glidera's service aims to solve the problem of security with bitcoin multi-signature technology which uses three keys (one stored with Glidera, one with the user, and one offline).

Aliona Chapel