Starbucks app

We give the new Starbucks payment app a go - and show you how to prep your iPhone before you head to the counter.

Starbucks introduced a new app for iPhone and BlackBerry today allowing users to pay for coffee via smartphone. And with a location (let’s be honest, more like four or five) in our neighborhood, we decided to try it out.

The only things you’re required to have are a Starbucks gift card and account. You’re able to sign up for an account on your phone, but consider yourselves warned, it’s not a fun process. We all know apps aren’t great data entry tools, and this one is no exception. It unfortunately wasn’t an option during the test run, so head here and do it beforehand if you plan on using the app.

We also had an issue finding the coffee shop’s location. It could’ve easily been a 3G glitch, but one of the baristas mentioned that its particular locale is sometimes difficult to find via GPS, and manually finding the address proved challenging. After a second run, we were able to pay remotely. It really is as simple as it claims to be: you register your gift card (or cards), tap for purchases, and let the barista scan it after you order. What we’re uncertain of is why this is so much easier than handing over a debit or credit card. Other than the seconds and fraction of human interaction it shaves off, the experience seems pretty comparable.

But for those times when  you’ve got nothing but your phone and a craving for caffeine, the Starbucks Mobile App has you covered.

Showing 2 comments

  1. ioman at 3:25pm 19th January 2011 Sounds like nothing more than a gimmick to me. Why would you need your Star Bucks gift card too?
  2. Andrew Beehler at 3:21pm 19th January 2011 I already used the Starbucks app to manage my Starbucks card/reward, so there wasn't much setup for me. There are two reasons that I find this system particularly attractive/convenient. First off, i'm able to eliminate one more card from my already cramped wallet. Secondly, it's a step in the right direction to becoming more "green," it may only be a little step, but it reduces the need for gift cards which soon end up in the trash.
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