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Starbucks, Microsoft in Wireless Venture

Yi Ping Ho

Click for your coffee and then sit, sip and surf. At least that's what Seattle-area neighbors Starbucks(SBUX Quote) and Microsoft(MSFT Quote) are envisioning.

The companies today announced a "one of a kind" wireless venture to connect Starbucks coffee shops around North America with high-speed, broadband technology. The financial terms of the agreement weren't disclosed.

Starbucks and Microsoft said they will use privately held MobileStar Network's wireless broadband service. Starbucks customers will be able to access broadband content and services using their own wireless-enabled laptops, smart phones, Pocket PCs and other handheld devices. Starbucks also plans to eventually launch a customer card that will let people preorder drinks using their mobile phones.

Shares of Starbucks were lately up $1.44, or 3.4%, to $43.50, while Microsoft recently soared $5.31, or 12.3%, to $48.63 on the Nasdaq.