Seattle-based Starbucks
Coffee Company and Compaq Computer Corporation offered up a blend of
high-tech with high-end java when they announced a joint-venture to
provide high-speed wireless Internet access at Starbucks cafes.
This summer some Starbucks customers will see the first signs of
this five-year project when they will be able sit down and surf the
wireless Web on their handheld or laptop computers, while sipping a
cappuccino.
The companies said that by 2002 nearly three-quarters of the
4,150 Starbucks stores around the world will have wireless access to
the Internet.
"Compaq’s vision for a wireless Internet is all about
delivering personalized content with anytime, anywhere access, said
Michael Capellas, Compaq’s chairman and CEO.
Compaq will join Starbucks and Microsoft,
who partnered with the coffee chain in January, in developing and
deploying the high-speed environment. Under the terms of the
agreement, Compaq will become the preferred infrastructure provider
for Starbucks stores and corporate offices. The Houston-based
company outbid rival Dell Computers for a deal worth nearly
$100-million. This agreement will include providing the coffee
company with enterprise servers and store solutions, desktops,
laptops and iPAQ products as well as participating in future
technology ventures.
Darren Huston, senior vice president of New Ventures at
Starbucks, said that working closely with Compaq and Microsoft on
enterprise and consumer wireless solutions, such as providing
broadband content and services via wireless devices, will help the
company improve store operations and enhance the customer’s
in-store experience.
For more information: http://www.starbucks.com/aboutus/pressdesc.asp?id=179
Mobileinfo Comments and Advisory: A great idea that
might find some traction with students and air travelers who
frequent Starbucks.
