Coffee chain Starbucks is to begin pilot trials of a new application which enables loyalty card holders to pay for their purchases using an Apple iPhone or iPod touch.
The new Starbucks Card Mobile App enables users to view their account balance on screen, reload the card using a credit card, and register for loyalty rewards.
The coffee chain is also piloting a groundbreaking commercial trial that will enable cardholders to pay for their purchases in 16 stores in Seattle and Northern California using their Apple mobile. The device will display a barcode that can be used just like a plastic Starbucks Card to make a purchase.
Starbucks has also launched a seperate MyStarbucks App, which can be used to search for the nearest outlet and display the location on a map. The app also offers the ability to filter stores and conduct location searches based on a store's amenities, including opening hours, menu options and wi-fi.