Does Starbucks Take Apple Pay? (Full Guide 2025)

Yes, Starbucks accepts Apple Pay! Whether you’re grabbing your morning latte, paying at the drive-thru, or topping up your Starbucks Card in the app, Apple Pay makes the entire process faster, safer, and more convenient. It’s supported at nearly all Starbucks stores across the U.S. and many locations worldwide.

In this complete guide, you’ll learn exactly how to use Apple Pay at Starbucks, how it works through the app and drive-thru, and what to do if you run into any issues. For more helpful Apple-related tutorials and payment tips, check out Apple-Solutions.

Quick Answer: Starbucks Does Accept Apple Pay ✅

Starbucks has fully embraced contactless payment technology, and Apple Pay works seamlessly across most of its locations. Here’s where you can use it:

• In Stores: Tap your iPhone or Apple Watch at the card reader.
• Drive-Thru: Use Apple Pay when you reach the payment window.
• In the App: Reload your Starbucks Card using Apple Pay as your payment method.
• Mobile Orders: Pay for pickup or in-store orders through the app.

Compatible Apple Devices

• iPhone (iPhone 6 or newer)
• Apple Watch (all models)
• iPad (models with Touch ID or Face ID)

A Few Quick Notes

• Apple Pay works at nearly all company-operated Starbucks stores.
• Make sure your Apple Wallet is set up before you order.
• NFC (Near Field Communication) must be enabled.
• Some older or franchised locations may still be updating their systems.

How to Use Apple Pay at Starbucks (Step-by-Step)

💳 In-Store Payment

Using Apple Pay inside a Starbucks is quick and effortless.

For iPhone:

1. When you’re ready to pay, double-click the side button (or the home button on older models).
2. Use Face ID or Touch ID to authenticate.
3. Hold the top of your iPhone near the contactless reader.
4. Wait for the checkmark and “Done” message to appear that’s it!

For Apple Watch:

1. Double-click the side button.
2. Hold your watch face near the reader.
3. You’ll feel a tap and hear a beep once payment goes through.

🚗 Drive-Thru Payments

Paying with Apple Pay at the drive-thru works exactly the same way:

1. Place your order at the speaker.
2. Pull up to the window.
3. Activate Apple Pay on your iPhone or Apple Watch.
4. Hold your device close to the payment terminal.
5. Authenticate and wait for confirmation before driving off.

Pro Tip: The closer your device is to the reader, the faster it processes most drive-thru terminals are positioned for easy reach from your car window.

📱 Using Apple Pay in the Starbucks App

You can’t pay directly with Apple Pay for orders in the Starbucks app, but you can use it to reload your Starbucks Card, which is then used to pay and earn rewards.

Here’s how:

1. Open the Starbucks app on your iPhone.
2. Tap “Pay” at the bottom.
3. Select your Starbucks Card.
4. Tap “Reload” or “Add Money.”
5. Choose an amount.
6. Select Apple Pay as your payment method.
7. Authenticate with Face ID or Touch ID.

Your card balance updates instantly ready for your next order.

Why Use Apple Pay at Starbucks?

⚡ Speed and Convenience

No need to dig through your bag or wallet just tap and go. Transactions are completed in seconds.

🔒 Top-Notch Security

Apple Pay uses tokenization, meaning your actual card number is never shared with Starbucks. Every purchase generates a unique code to keep your data secure.

🧼 Contactless and Hygienic

Avoid touching shared card readers or handing over your card, it’s safer, cleaner, and faster.

🎁 Rewards Integration

You won’t earn Stars directly with Apple Pay, but when you use it to reload your Starbucks Card, those purchases do count toward Starbucks Rewards.

💳 No Wallet Needed

Your phone or watch is all you need. Perfect for quick coffee runs or workouts.

🔐 Privacy You Can Trust

Apple doesn’t track your purchases or store transaction history, your spending data stays private.

Where Starbucks Accepts Apple Pay

Apple Pay is accepted at most Starbucks locations, but availability can vary slightly by country:

• United States: Supported at almost all company-operated stores and drive-thrus.
• United Kingdom: Fully integrated across the country.
• Canada: Widely available nationwide.
• Australia & Europe: Common in most cities with modern contactless systems.
• Asia: Expanding rapidly in countries like Japan, Singapore, and Hong Kong.

Exceptions:
Some airport, hotel, or licensed Starbucks stores (like those inside Target or grocery chains) may have older terminals or limited NFC support. When in doubt, just ask before you pay.

Troubleshooting: When Apple Pay Doesn’t Work

If Apple Pay isn’t working at Starbucks, try these fixes:

🪪 Card or Account Issues

• Open Apple Wallet to confirm your card is active and properly added.
• Check that your card hasn’t expired or been blocked by your bank.

📶 NFC & Connection

• Make sure NFC is enabled (it’s on by default).
• Remove thick or metal cases that might interfere with the signal.
• Hold your phone closer to the reader for 2–3 seconds.

🔐 Authentication

• Re-scan your Face ID or Touch ID.
• Try entering your device passcode manually.
• Update to the latest iOS version.

🧾 Terminal Issues

• Ask the barista to check if the reader is turned on.
• Try again or use another card if the terminal seems unresponsive.

🧰 Quick Fix Steps

• Restart your device.
• Remove and re-add your card.
• Test Apple Pay at another store to rule out device issues.
• Contact Apple Support if problems persist.

Other Payment Options at Starbucks

Starbucks gives customers plenty of ways to pay, including:

• Starbucks Card: Best for earning Stars and Rewards.
• Credit/Debit Cards: Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover.
• PayPal: Available as a reload option in the app.
• Google Pay & Samsung Pay: Supported at most locations for Android users.
• Cash: Accepted everywhere, though less common these days.

Apple Pay vs. Starbucks Card Which Is Better?

It depends on your priorities:

☕ Starbucks Card Advantages

• Earns Stars toward free drinks and food.
• Works directly with the mobile app for quick ordering.
• Unlocks birthday rewards and member perks.
• Tracks your purchase history and favorite orders.

🍎 Apple Pay Advantages

• Ultra-secure with Face ID, Touch ID, and tokenized payments.
• No balance to manage pay directly from your card.
• Works everywhere, not just Starbucks.
• Faster checkout and stronger privacy protection.

Best Strategy: Use Apple Pay to reload your Starbucks Card.
You’ll get the security and simplicity of Apple Pay plus Starbucks Rewards points.

How Safe Is Apple Pay at Starbucks?

Apple Pay is one of the safest ways to pay here’s why:

• Tokenization: Your real card details are replaced with a unique encrypted token.
• Biometric Authentication: Only your Face ID, Touch ID, or passcode can authorize payments.
• Secure Element Chip: Stores your card info safely, separate from the operating system.
• End-to-End Encryption: No one, not even Apple or Starbucks can access your full card number.
• Privacy First: Apple doesn’t track where you shop or what you buy.
• Lost Device Protection: You can lock or erase Apple Pay remotely using Find My iPhone.

Compared to physical cards that can be skimmed or copied, Apple Pay offers superior protection for your finances and identity.

Final Thoughts

Yes, Starbucks takes Apple Pay, and it’s one of the fastest, safest, and most convenient ways to pay. Whether you’re in-store, at the drive-thru, or reloading your Starbucks Card in the app, Apple Pay keeps your checkout smooth and secure.

For the best experience, use Apple Pay to reload your Starbucks Card. You’ll enjoy all the benefits of contactless payments while still earning rewards for every sip.

Next time you’re craving your favorite brew, just double-click, authenticate, and tap your coffee will be paid for before your name’s even called.