Starbuck's Mobile Payment System Goes Nationwide

Really need a latte or macchiato, but are running low on cash? Forgot your credit card? No problem, as long as you have your iPhone. After a successful test at select stores and Target outlets, Starbucks has expanded its mobile payment system to all of its 6,800 company-owned stores. Using the free Starbucks Card Mobile app, users can now easily pay for their purchases with a simple swipe of their iPhone. It works like this: You must first purchase a Starbucks card. Each card includes a number similar to what you would find on a credit card. Enter this number into the Starbucks app. This creates a barcode image. On your next visit to Starbucks, simply show the cashier your iPhone. They will swipe the barcode and your purchase is completed. Since the app allows you to add to your card balance, you never again have to purchase another Starbucks card.  Adding to your balance can be done online at Starbucks.com or directly using the app. To do this, you need to establish a connection between your Starbucks card and a credit or debit card.

The process is seamless in many respects. However, Starbucks would be wise to do away with the requirement of having to first purchase one of their cards. Plus, some won’t be willing to share their bank account information just to make coffee buying more convenient. For those, there is a solution. You can "reload" your app account with new Starbucks cards, or through PayPal. Starbucks will almost certainly not be the only company to do this. Perhaps someday soon you'll use your Best Buy Reward Zone app or Target app to make similar purchases in those stores. One concern: What happens if you lose your iPhone? What do you think? Is Starbuck's mobile payment system something you will try? Leave your comments below.

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