For years I’ve predicted that Starbucks would eventually abandon its ridiculously overpriced Wi-Fi and join Caribou Coffee, Panera Bread, and other chains in setting connectivity free. Well, I was right. (Hey, it doesn’t happen often, so I have to brag when it does!) As of yesterday, you can get free Internet access at any (participating) Starbucks location.
Okay, ”free” with a couple small caveats. First, you have to buy a pre-paid Starbucks card and register it online. Second, you have to use it (or recharge it) at least once a month. Third, you have to create an AT&T account (free) and agree to the occasional spam — er, promotional e-mail. Finally, you have to limit your Internet activity to two hours per day.
Personally, I think all those stipulations are fair. High-speed Internet access is a privilege, not a right, and I don’t mind spending a few bucks on a cup of coffee or brick of crumb cake to get it. I also don’t mind the two-hour limitation, as it keeps people from turning Starbucks into all-day offices.
Agree? Disagree? Hit the Comments and tell us if you’ll be visiting Starbucks more, less, or the same amount as a result of this new offering. [via jkOnTheRun]
