Starbucks brings wireless charging to UK stores with Powermat
In partnership with Powermat, you'll soon be able to wirelessly charge your smartphone, tablet and other gadgets wireless while you sip on your caramel macchiato. The scheme will roll out in 10 London Starbucks locations by the end of January and follows a successful rollout in San Francisco - see below for the list of stores.
"We have always tried to anticipate our customers' needs and innovate with technology to provide even more convenience," said Ian Cranna, vice president of marketing at Starbucks. "Our partnership with Powermat demonstrates Starbucks response to an increasing need to stay connected whilst on the go."
Although it's called wireless charging, customers will have to collect a 'ring' from the till and connect it to their device before placing it on the Powermat. These will be available to Apple users with a Lightning device, older 30-pin device and anything with microUSB.
You can, of course, use a Powermat compatible device without the adapter - the firm uses PMA, not the more popular Qi standard. There's no fee for borrowing the 'ring' but if you don't fancy the hassle or risk of there being none left Starbucks will sell you one of £10. Read: How to use Qi wireless charging.
Starbucks said the initiative is part of its commitment to 'digital innovations' to improve its customers' in-store experience. The firm pointed out that according to research by Mophie, 92 percent of Brits would feel stressed if the battery in their smartphone ran out.
The first 10 central London stores are: Princes Street, Kingsway, Wardour Street, Pentonville Road, Harewood Place, Berkeley Street, Great Portland Street, Moorgate, Fleet Street, and Euston Tower.