UK Starbucks gets simple, free Wi-Fi sign-on
updated 10:55 pm EDT, Fri October 7, 2011
UK Starbucks uses same simple Wi-Fi login as US
British Starbucks coffee houses took a large stride forward in encouraging Internet use Friday with a change in their Free Wi-Fi service. Similar to the US and Canada, drinkers now just have to visit a single sign-in page, here at BT Openzone, to get access to a hotspot. UK visitors previously had to sign up for a Starbucks Rewards card and login with a username and password, both of which discouraged some from signing in.
UK and Ireland Marketing VP Brian Waring suggested it would be useful not just for encouraging relaxation and work in the stores but that it might play a large role in the 2012 Summer Olympics in London, where "millions" will be visiting and very likely turn to a Starbucks to get online.
As with North American stores, British stores don't have a time limit, although those who have to stay for a long time are encouraged to get a drink or food out of courtesy. [image via Digital Widget]







Grizzled Veteran
Joined: Sep 2000
too late for me
I imagine the motivation is Olympic Games tourism. The previous system was stupid for tourists as I discovered earlier this year in Glasgow.