Tech Guide

Here's how to send someone a Starbucks coffee from your iPhone

Starbucks' Adam Brotman demonstrates mobile order and pay on the the company's app during the Starbucks annual shareholders meeting.
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Apple's iMessage makes it easy to give your friend a quick caffeine boost thanks to new support for Starbucks gift cards.

It sounds way more complicated than it is, so stick with me here. All you'll need to do is make sure you have the Starbucks app installed on your iPhone. If you do, you'll have no problem moving forward with this guide.

When we're done, you'll be able to send anyone you know a quick Starbucks gift card, even the intern staying late to finish your work.


Start by opening up iMessage and tapping the app store icon at the top left side of the keyboard.

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You’ll see a list of iMessage apps here. Scroll to the Starbucks Gifts app and then tap it.

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There are a bunch of gift card designs to choose from. I like the one that says “You make life shine.” Pick your favorite and tap it.

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Now you’ll be able to choose how much you want to send. $5 should be enough for a decent Frappuccino.

Todd Haselton | CNBC


Tap “Buy” at the bottom of the screen. You’ll verify and complete the purchase using Apple Pay or with any stored credit cards you have on your iPhone.

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Now add a comment and send!

Todd Haselton | CNBC