Apple to offer wireless music at Starbucks

CUPERTINO, Calif. Apple today introduced its first iPod with a Wi-Fi wireless network. The announcement comes just as the company reported that it has formed an exclusive partnership with Starbucks that allows customers to access the iTunes Wi-Fi Music Store for free in participating U.S. Starbucks stores starting next month.

As the first iPod with Wi-Fi capabilities, the new iPod touch, which, according to Apple, employs the same multi-touch interface that was first introduced on the iPhone, is the only one that can be used to access the iTunes Wi-Fi Music Store (iPhone, PC and Mac users can access the store as well.) The iPod touch is 8 mm thin, and is priced starting at just $299.

The service, which allows customers to see what song is currently playing or has recently played in the store, and immediately preview, buy and download it over Wi-Fi, will debut at more than 600 Starbucks locations in New York and Seattle on Oct. 2.

"Getting free access to the iTunes Wi-Fi Music Store and the 'Now Playing' service at Starbucks is a great way for customers to discover new music," said Steve Jobs, Apple's ceo. "Imagine walking into a participating Starbucks, hearing a great song, and being able to instantly download it onto your iPod or iPhone. We think this is very cool."

After its debut in New York and Seattle on Oct. 2, the iTunes Wi-Fi Music Store will continue its national rollout to 350 Starbucks stores in the San Francisco Bay area on Nov. 7; 500 stores in Los Angeles in early February 2008; 300 stores in Chicago in March 2008; and additional markets throughout the United States later in 2008.