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Starbucks offers wireless device charging stations

Customers can place compatible devices on designated 'Powermat Spots' and charge them wirelessly.

November 19, 2014

Starbucks has unveiled Powermat wireless charging in approximately 200 of its stores in the San Francisco Bay Area. The launch is the first step in Starbucks strategic plan to offer Powermat throughout its US locations, and to explore rollouts in Europe and Asia within the year.

"We are thrilled to offer our Bay Area customers the next level of convenience with Powermat wireless charging. This first market installation is a first step towards a national deployment of this amenity in our stores," said Adam Brotman, chief digital officer at Starbucks, in a company press release. "We were pleased with the customer response to the pilot tests we conducted over the past two years and we now expect an even greater level of customer satisfaction as we set forth to offer wireless charging capability on a national scale."

Stores in the San Francisco Bay area are now equipped with 'Powermat Spots' - designated areas on tables and counters where customers can place their compatible device and charge wirelessly.  In addition, Starbucks stores are offering Duracell Powermat "Rings" for purchase or loan that instantly upgrade any phone to wireless charging compatibility. The rings are being offered for in-store purchase at $9.99 and can alternately be borrowed and returned on a per-visit basis.