| Two Northwest companies, Starbucks and Microsoft, have announced a strategic relationship to create a high-speed, connected environment in Starbucks locations across North America using MobileStar Network Corp.’s wireless broadband network.
Customers will be able to access broadband content and services using their own wirelessly enabled laptops, smart phones, Pocket PCs and other handheld devices - all while enjoying a cup of Starbucks coffee.
The relationship combines Starbucks expertise in creating an inviting and relaxing coffeehouse experience with Microsoft’s state-of-the-art technologies and MSN content and services. MobileStar, a leading wireless broadband Internet service provider, will deploy the network infrastructure beginning in late spring, delivering an enhanced consumer experience for Starbucks customers. The planned technologies represent an early step in Microsoft’s delivery on the .NET vision of software that empowers users any time, any place and on any device and Starbucks’ desire to address the changing lifestyles of its customers.
“We’re really pleased to be working with Starbucks on this project,” said Steve Ballmer, president and CEO of Microsoft. Starbucks is not only a great Seattle neighbor, but one of the world’s leading retailers and among the best-known and best-respected brands on the globe.”
“These new relationships will provide us a great opportunity to enhance our existing customers’ in-store experience as well as attract new customers to our retail locations,” said Howard Schultz, chairman and chief global strategist at Starbucks.
During the coming year, the companies will work together to develop services that leverage the power of the wireless broadband network. Customers using the MobileStar wireless broadband service will be able to check their e-mail and even access corporate intranets to stay connected to the office. | 
