Starbucks Testing New BlackBerry App at 8 Seattle Locations

If you drink a lot of Starbucks (like me), and carry a BlackBerry (like me), there’s a new app being tested in the Seattle area that will no doubt be of interest to you (and me).

On the heels of their successful iPhone app (launched last September), Starbucks is announcing a new version of the app dedicated to BlackBerry users. Not only will the new app let you check your Starbucks card balance, but you’ll be able to reload it, and even PAY for your drinks via a barcode scan in-store. Very cool.

Now, I have to admit, I DO have a Starbucks card, but hardly ever use the thing (in fact, I can’t remember the last time I used it). I usually hand over some cash or another form of plastic to pay for my coffee. That said, I could really see myself digging the new app, if and when the service becomes available at locations my area. At the moment, only 8 stores in the Seattle area have been equipped with special scanners to read the barcodes used to pay from within the app. If you happen to live in Seattle, here are the locations:

• Key Tower 700 5th Ave
• Columbia Center 701 Fifth Ave
• First Interstate / Wells Fargo 999 Third Ave
• 40th Floor Columbia Tower 701 5th Ave
• 7th & Stewart 1700 Seventh Ave
• 7th & Pike 1524 7th Ave
• University Village II 2650 NE 49th St.
• Madison Park 4000 E. Madison Ave

To get the app, head over to Starbucks.com or text the word ‘GO’ to 70845. Most current-gen BlackBerry devices are supported, including the Tour, Storm and Bold series. If you’re one of the lucky ones in the Seattle area with a BlackBerry in-hand, and you give this trial app a spin… Be sure to let us know what you think of the experience. I’m thinking it’s going to be chalked-full of WIN! (and coffee)

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