Starbucks, the most popular coffee chain, has been a staple in many people’s daily routines. With its convenient locations and delicious drinks, it is no surprise that many customers wonder does Starbucks Take Apple Pay.
Here we will be discussing the topic of whether or not Starbucks accepts Apple Pay as a form of payment.
With the rise of mobile payments and digital wallets, many consumers are looking for ways to make their daily transactions more convenient and secure. Starbucks being one of the biggest coffee chains worldwide, people want to know if they can use their Apple device to pay for their purchases at the Starbucks store.
In this blog, we will explore does Starbucks take Apple pay, how Apple Pay works and related topics, while providing you with all the information you need to know about using Apple Pay at Starbucks. So, get a cup of your favorite coffee, and let’s dig into the topic!

What is Apple Pay & How Does This Work?
Apple Pay is an iOS mobile payment and digital wallet service by Apple Inc. that allows users to make payments using their Apple devices like iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, or Mac. To use Apple Pay, an iOS user must add one or more credit or debit cards to the Wallet app on their device. Once a card is added, it can be used to make payments in stores, within the apps, and on the website.
You will be amused to know how easily you can make payments through Apple Pay. The user just needs to hold their device near a contactless card reader and confirms the payment using Touch ID or Face ID. The payment is then instantly processed using the user’s selected card and the merchant is paid by the card issuer.
Does Starbucks Take Apple Pay?
Simple answer – Yes, Starbucks takes Apple Pay. Apple Pay can be easily added to your Starbucks app without any hassle. To add Apple Pay, you will need to make sure your device is running iOS 8.1 or newer versions and that you have the latest version of the Starbucks app, if not, you must update it.

Once you have confirmed that, you can add Apple Pay to your account by following these easy steps:
- Open the Starbucks app on your iOS device.
- Search the “More” tab on the screen and tap it.
- Tap “Settings.”
- Tap “Payment.”
- Tap “Add a Payment Method.”
- Tap “Apple Pay.”
And that is it! Follow the prompts to add your card and authorize the payment.
Once you have added Apple Pay to your Starbucks account, you can use it to make purchases at most of the Starbucks locations by simply holding your device near the contactless reader at the register.
How to Use Apple Pay on the Starbucks App?
Using Apple Pay on the Starbucks app is easy. To use Apple Pay on the Starbucks app, you first need to make sure that your iOS device is compatible with Apple Pay and that you have added a payment method to your Apple Wallet. Then follow these steps:
- Open the Starbucks app on your iPhone or iPad.
- Select the “Pay” icon at the bottom of the screen.
- Select “Apple Pay” as the payment method.
- No, confirm the payment via Touch ID or Face ID.
And you are all set!
For in-store purchases, customers can hold their devices like the iPhone or Apple Watch near the contactless reader at the register and use Touch ID or Face ID to complete their purchase.
Can You Use Apple Pay in Starbucks Drive-thru?
Yes, Starbucks gives you the option to make purchases using Apple Pay at a Starbucks drive-thru. Many Starbucks locations accept Apple Pay as a form of payment, including those that are drive-thru only.
To use Apple Pay at a Starbucks drive-thru, simply hold your Apple device, including your iPhone or Apple Watch near the contactless reader at the drive-thru window, and your payment will be processed.
Why Can’t I Use Apple Pay on Starbucks App?
There could be several reasons why you are unable to use Apple Pay on the Starbucks app. Some common reasons include:
- Incompatible device: It is important to know that Apple Pay can only be used on certain devices such as iPhones, iPads, and Apple Watches. If your device is not compatible, you will not be able to use Apple Pay to make payments on the Starbucks app.
- Location restriction: It is possible that Apple Pay may not be available in certain regions or countries. If you are located in an area where Apple Pay is not supported, then you cannot use it on the Starbucks app.
- Outdated app version: If the Starbucks app installed on your device is not up-to-date, it may not be compatible with the latest version of Apple Pay. The way to resolve the issue is by updating the app.
- Payment method not set up: Apple Pay must be set up and linked to an available payment method, such as a debit or credit card before it can be used on the Starbucks app. If you have not set up Apple Pay, you will not be able to use it.
- Technical issues: Many times there might be technical issues with the Starbucks app or the Apple Pay service that are hindering the payment method from working properly. In this case, you may need to contact customer support and get help.
What Other Payment Methods are Available on Starbucks?
Here are all the other payments available on Starbucks.
- Credit and debit cards
- Starbucks Card. Starbucks also has its digital wallet called the “Starbucks Card Mobile App”, which allows customers to reload their gift cards and pay using their mobile devices.
- PayPal
- Google Wallet
- Samsung Pay
- Cash
- Check (at some select locations)
At Starbucks, customers can easily pay for their purchases using their iPhone, iPad, or Apple Watch, making the checkout process quick and convenient.
This is just one of the many ways Starbucks is working to improve the customer experience and make their stores more friendly and accessible to everyone. Next time you are at Starbucks, don’t forget to bring your iPhone or iPad and give Apple Pay a try!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all Starbucks locations accept Apple Pay?
No, not all Starbucks locations accept mobile payments, so it is suggested to check with your local store before using Apple Pay to make a payment. However, most Starbucks locations do accept several mobile payment options, including Apple Pay.
Can Apple Pay be used to reload my Starbucks card?
Yes, you can use Apple Pay to reload your Starbucks card through the Starbucks app. Simply tap the “Reload” option in the app and then tap “Apple Pay” as your payment method to reload your Starbucks card.
Can I use Apple Pay to order prior and skip the queue at Starbucks?
Yes, you can use Apple Pay to order ahead and skip the line at Starbucks. In the Starbucks app, tap the “Order” option, and then select “Apple Pay” as your payment method and order your eatables without having to wait in a queue.
Can I use Apple Pay to buy at Starbucks and earn rewards at the same time?
Yes, you can use Apple Pay to make a purchase at Starbucks and earn rewards at the same time. You can do this by linking your Starbucks account to Apple Pay, you can earn stars and redeem your rewards for eatables, including free Starbucks drinks and food items.
What benefit do I get from using Apple Pay at Starbucks?
One of the biggest benefits of using Apple Pay at Starbucks is the convenience and speed of the payment transaction. Using Apple Pay allows customers to make purchases quickly and easily without having to fumble around for cash or cards.