Apple and Starbucks have entered into an exclusive partnership that allows customers to wirelessly browse, search, preview, buy and download music from the iTunes Wi-Fi Music Store at Starbucks.
When a customer enters a Starbucks, their device will recognize the iTunes Wi-Fi Music Store using a wireless network with no connection fee or login. Customers will be able to browse and preview songs, including a new “Now Playing” service which displays the name of the song playing in the store at that moment. Prices and selection will be the same as on the regular iTunes Store. The service will launch at 600 Starbucks company-operated locations in New York and Seattle on October 2.
“Getting free access to the iTunes Wi-Fi Music Store and the ‘Now Playing’ service at Starbucks is a great way for customers to discover new music,” said Steve Jobs, Apple’s CEO.
“Imagine walking into a participating Starbucks, hearing a great song, and being able to instantly download it onto your iPod or iPhone. We think this is very cool.”
After its launch in New York and Seattle, the iTunes Wi-Fi Music Store will launch in the San Francisco Bay area on November 7, in Los Angeles in February 2008 and in Chicago in March of 2008. There are plans for the rollout in additional markets in the U.S. later in 2008.
“With this partnership, we’re bringing Apple’s leadership in digital music together with not only our retail footprint, but the unique Starbucks experience, to offer customers a world-class digital music experience,” said Howard Schultz, chairman, Starbucks Coffee Company.
